tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77435382121057478972024-03-13T08:33:33.253-05:00Titus24UConnecting women with GOD and one another!Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.comBlogger779125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-66270355658494248582020-12-20T20:47:00.001-06:002020-12-20T20:49:12.965-06:00Stocking Scripture<p><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.85px;">It's officially Christmas week, which means it's time for me to get busy!! Gift buying can stress me out, but I'm kind of excited for my favorite stocking stuffer. I originally shared the following post in 2015 and started the tradition in 2012. It's been a blessing to reflect on the verses I've prayed and more so on the answers God has provided. Friend, I encourage you to consider this idea for loved ones in your family. I'd also recommend keeping a record for yourself...down the road it will be a reminder of God's faithfulness!</span></span></p><p><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.85px;">*****************************************************************************************</span></span></p><p><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">From 2015 - Christmas is getting closer every day...my little guys remind me of this every time they remove a ring from their chain and put an X on the calendar. They are getting excited and thankfully, I'm not getting stressed. Though it may happen, I've found myself filled with peace as I think about our traditional stocking stuffer.</span></p><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f8h_88YvW0U/VmX2ykQmUTI/AAAAAAAABLQ/9Bp77kITZyE/s1600/IMG_0898.JPG" style="clear: left; color: #006677; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f8h_88YvW0U/VmX2ykQmUTI/AAAAAAAABLQ/9Bp77kITZyE/s320/IMG_0898.JPG" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="320" /></a></div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">So this tradition is only on its third year, but I know it's one that won't grow old. It won't be the wrong size, the batteries won't die and it's not something that will go out of style. It's also not loaded with sugar and it doesn't cost a dime. What is this perfect gift you ask - it's what I've called, "Stocking Scriptures".</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">A few years back I was doing a Bible study about praying Scripture. I really hadn't intentionally done that, but this study taught me how powerful it was. Friend, "</span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">God's Word is living 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</i><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">." (Hebrews 4:12)</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">Isaiah 55:11 tells us this, "</span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">So is my word that goes out from my mouth: it will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it</i><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">."</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">Finally another important verse about Scripture - "</span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is the Word of God</i><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">." (Luke 8:11) Jesus says this as He explains the parable of the four soils. God's Word is a seed that can take root in our hearts and produce a crop. Now granted the soil needs to be good and hearts need to be pure for it to grow, but if a seed is never planted the crop will not be harvested.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">This study really prompted me to pray Scripture seriously and the timing of it led me to give it as a gift. Now as the month of December unfolds, I find myself reflecting on the year and thinking about where I want my kids, husband and self to be in the year to come. I think about the fruit I'd like to see and know God is able to grow, then I study God's Word to see if there is a Scripture that speaks to that quality or character trait.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">Once I find a verse or passage for each of us, I type them up or write them out, and put them in our stockings. For example, my daughter struggled with pleasing people and being over-concerned with what others thought, so I prayed, "</span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe</i><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">." Proverbs 29:25</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">Another child was struggling with fear, so 2 Timothy 1:7 was a natural choice, "</span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and discipline</i><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">."</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">And for the child who has yet to confess Christ as Lord and Savior, "</span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Therefore He is able to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them</i><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">." (Hebrews 7:25)</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">For my mom friends, be prepared - your little people are not very excited about a piece of paper when they compare it to the other goodies, but we know the value it has. And as they grow, they will understand as well. My older daughter still has her first 2 cards and each time she reads them, I believe good seeds are being planted.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">I not only put the verses in the stockings, but I also print a couple of copies for myself...one's in my Bible and another posted by my treadmill. As I read the verses, I pray them and also hide them in my heart. It's a gift that keeps on giving!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">This Christmas if you're struggling with what to give, I encourage you to pray about incorporating "Stocking Scriptures" into your holiday routine. It will bless those who receive and the one who gives!!</span>Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-49606741961764122752020-11-03T05:49:00.002-06:002020-11-03T05:49:46.202-06:00What are you going through? <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bVoOXCW--jA/X6FCZ5DDLAI/AAAAAAAAEtk/VeWM16STbvk5TU3dC-_ZLJ_4L6hv9PVvQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/roadplain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bVoOXCW--jA/X6FCZ5DDLAI/AAAAAAAAEtk/VeWM16STbvk5TU3dC-_ZLJ_4L6hv9PVvQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/roadplain.jpg" /></a></div><br />Hard times. Difficult trials. Unexpected change of plans. Fear of the unknown. Overwhelming grief. Relationship struggles. Health issues. All situations none of us would sign up for, but things we all experience. I have countless friends and family walking through hard times right now. On this election day, I'm up early thinking about what our country is going through. Sometimes, my heart just hurts. How about yours? <p></p><p>When I find myself in this situation and thinking about loved ones experiencing the same, it can be easy to get discouraged or feel overwhelmed. Would you agree? Fear can set in while worry overtakes and that just adds to the difficult trial. We've all lived long enough to know life has it's moments, sometimes days or weeks or months or even years - we can say that in 2020 right?!? </p><p>In John 16:33b, Jesus told us, "<i>In this world you will have trouble, but take heart I have overcome the world.</i>" We can find peace in this promise! I also find encouragement in something my pastor said weeks ago, but I continue to think about - "Whatever you are going through, God is growing you through." </p><p>It is a catchy statement, but it's also a truthful one. God is always working and He has a purpose for our pain. His plan isn't all fun and games, but no matter what we are going through He is present. In the good times and the bad, He is working for our good and His glory. When things are out of control, we're reminded He is in control. When we feel unable to take another step, we realize His grace His sufficient. When we can't do it on our own, we're more likely to surrender our plan and submit to His perfect one. </p><p>This sounds good and I have no doubt it's true, but it's not always easy. So this morning as I spent time with the Lord, I found myself asking, "How? - How do I do it? How do I allow you to grow me through this? How do I encourage others to do the same?" </p><p>I heard no voice and I don't have the perfect answer, but as I look to His Word and reflect on my own life a plan came to mind. All things I've done, but practices I need to do better and more as I go through life and desire God to grow me through it all. If the cry of your heart is the same, I pray you find a piece of wisdom and encouragement as well. </p><p>FOCUS - When a trying situation presents itself, it can be consuming. Everything else fades away and the trouble overwhelms. When it's all I see, perspective fades and I'm blind to the Truth. In moments like this, I need to remember where to focus. Hebrews 12:2 tells us, "<i>Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.</i>" We can't deny reality, but we must remember who is with us in it. Jesus, the One who experienced immense pain, so one day you and I will be pain free. His Spirit in us can provide eternal eyes so that we can focus and see beyond "<i>this light momentary affliction which is preparing for us an eternal glory</i>." (2 Corinthians 4:17)</p><p>ASK - Tough times tend to cause me to close down. I can go into the quiet mode, pride keeps me from letting others know I can't do this on my own. Sometimes Satan's lies leaving me believing it's no big deal, others are hurting more and I'll bother people by sharing my struggle. Friend, as a mom I can better help my kids when they ask and the same is true when it comes to me - my loved ones can assist me more when I ask and more importantly God is there when I pray. When we ask God for help, answers, grace or whatever we need, He will provide. "<i>Ask and it will be given...</i>" (Matthew 7:7) Pause for a moment and think about when a hurting friend asks you for help...it's not a burden, right? Remember that when you are hurting...loved ones want to help, ASK. </p><p>SEEK - When we are going through a hard time, it often can be a new experience, a road we've never walked, which only makes the situation more challenging. We need direction. Looking for it and asking aren't always easy, but it always brings results. We can seek out one who's been in our shoes and they'll have traveling tips, but we must remember to go to God's Word. Here we will find promises and Truth, perspective and wisdom, instruction and training. </p><p>WORK - Trials in life not only overwhelm, they can exhaust as well. As we lose focus and wrestle with the unknowns, we can be tempted to quit. The obstacle in front of us can leave us defeated. Our inability to see the light at the end of the tunnel or the purpose in our pain can cause us to give up. I believe it was Elisabeth Elliot, who walked through an immense struggle of her own who said, "Do the next right thing." Whether you find yourself in a life changing struggle or daily difficult situation, don't worry about all the process involves...pour your energy into what comes next. Sometimes the most important work we can do in the midst of a trial is simply surrendering and admitting we can't do it all. James 4:7a sums it up quite well - "<i>Submit yourselves therefore to God</i>." </p><p>REST - I don't know about you, but when I'm going through a hard time I'm in a hurry to get through it. I want the struggle to be over. I want the suffering to end. Sometimes I'm tempted to busy myself with work that really doesn't matter. When I'm walking alongside a struggling friend, I can be tempted to carry a load that's not my own. In moments like these I need to rest. We need to heed the Lord's words in Psalm 46:10 and "<i>Be still and know that I am God</i>." It's critical we follow Jesus co<span style="font-family: inherit;">mmand - "<i><span class="text Matt-11-28" id="en-NIV-23488" style="background-color: white;"><span class="woj">Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.</span></span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="text Matt-11-29" id="en-NIV-23489" style="background-color: white;"><span class="woj">Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.</span></span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></i><span class="text Matt-11-30" id="en-NIV-23490" style="background-color: white;"><span class="woj"><i>For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.</i>” Matthew 11:28-30</span></span></span></p><p>As we focus on Jesus, ask for help, seek the Lord, do the work and find rest, God will grow us through whatever we are going through. As we mature and develop, we will experience hope and peace, we will find provision and perspective. God will offer protection and He will help us persevere. So today, whatever the struggle I encourage you to pause for a moment, shift your thinking and ask - "How is God growing me through what I am going through?" </p><p><i>Heavenly Father, I'm grateful to be your child. I know you have plans for good and a purpose for my pain. Give me eyes to see You. Give me a heart that seeks You. Give me a desire to live for You. Equip me to walk when life wants to knock me down. Humble me to ask for help. Assure me you are working even when I rest. Remind me it's ok to struggle, grieve and surrender, but don't let me forget that in my weakness you are strong. And in life's bad, you Father are always good. Thank you. In Jesus' Name, Amen. </i></p>Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-20575207221709915492020-07-14T21:18:00.000-05:002020-07-14T21:18:25.576-05:00Choosing Sides<span style="font-family: inherit;">In the world of sports, there's no way getting around it - you have to choose sides. If you want to compete, one person or team has to go against another. If you are an athlete, you're on one team or another. If you are a fan, the same is often true. You may want the opposition to play well and avoid injuries, but you want one team to win. </span><div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In Iowa, we had the joy of just wrapping up our baseball and softball seasons. Crazy to think the normalcy of sports was something we took for granted, along with many other aspects of daily life. Covid has definitely caused me to reflect and be thankful. It's also made me think more about choosing sides. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">You see, this summer we haven't just been picking sides in regards to the team we're cheering for, we've been choosing sides in many different ways - To Mask or Not to Mask, To Watch the News or Not, In Favor of Protests or Not, For Trump or Against. I could go on, but I'm sure you understand. The choices we face are endless. Or at least it seems that way. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I want to share with you a different approach. Awhile back I was visiting with a friend about a situation and she simply said, "Well, at least you know God is on your side." I understand what she was trying to say, but her words brought to mind a message I heard sometime ago. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I don't recall the speaker, but his point was simple - it's never about God choosing my side, it's about me choosing His. More important than his words are these from the Word -</span></div>
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #001320; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"Then Moses stood in the gate of the camp and said, “Who is on the LORD’s side? Come to me.” Exodus 32:26a</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In this verse, Moses had just found the people out of control - they were worshipping a golden calf. Chances are you are not bowing down to a calf yourself, but think with me for a minute - what are you worshipping? This doesn't just involve bending a knee, but what or who do you give more value than God? Are you choosing the side of health, comfort or normalcy over God? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>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." Joshua 24:15</i></span></div>
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This verse is often quoted, but how well is it lived? These words can be easy to say, but at times they can be challenging to do. Do you choose to serve the Lord when it's hard, when it's costly, when it's questioned? </div>
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<i>Elijah went before the people and said, "How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal is God, follow him." 1 Kings 18:21</i></div>
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Finally, these words should get our attention - we have to make a choice? <span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Following God is an either or situation. We need to choose a side. We can't be like my youngest son and changes sides as the game unfolds. We have an advantage in this situation - we know God will win! So friend, make the choice today! </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Making this choice doesn't make our problems disappear, but when we're on God's team He will give us a game plan and He provides us with a playbook! When we are on His side, we must be in His Word and walking with His Spirit. He will give us wisdom and strength. He'll provide guidance and direction. He will bring victory in the end. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">These days it can feel like we are in a losing battle, but we must remember the battle belongs to the Lord. He will equip us to stand and we must trust Him to fight. Friend, He will lead us!</span></span></div>
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Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-20142216706146230692020-06-06T22:44:00.000-05:002020-06-06T22:44:11.050-05:00A Bit of Joy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The other night I was praying with our kids as the day came to an end. We prayed about much, but one of the topics caught my attention. Joy, our oldest daughter, is spending her Saturdays this summer at the local Farmer's Market. She enjoys baking and awhile back mentioned the possibility of making and selling treats in town. Initially, the thought overwhelmed me a bit - we live 15 minutes out of town and she'd need a driver (most likely me) and the thought of all that baking made me nervous. Then I stepped back and appreciated my 15 year olds initiative, willingness to work and try something new.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sbry0bHY9y8/XtxhAKcbSTI/AAAAAAAAEos/yg7e88Phk2M_SA_ooo6vvkHWGF8mYZODgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/101796490_10223373860443388_8736164978454691840_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sbry0bHY9y8/XtxhAKcbSTI/AAAAAAAAEos/yg7e88Phk2M_SA_ooo6vvkHWGF8mYZODgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/101796490_10223373860443388_8736164978454691840_n.jpg" width="240" /></a>Once we gave her the green light, she went to work. She did a trial run of a few recipes, made a shopping list and bought all her ingredients. She researched packaging supplies and determined her prices. She came up with a name for her little spot along the market trail - "A Bit of Joy."<br />
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On the eve of her 2nd market, I prayed for her. We asked God for good weather and I prayed for Him to help her bring a bit of joy to all those who bought her sweets.<br />
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As I prayed, I realized that was just what I needed. I needed joy. Cupcakes and pie may offer it temporarily, but Jesus provides it daily. And friend, don't we need joy today?<br />
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I'll admit, I've been a bit discouraged lately. Events in our world weigh on my heart and I'm guessing you find them heavy as well. But it goes beyond the death and tragedy, it's what is happening to our nation. There is division and fear. There seems to be a lack of listening. It's just hard. Sometimes I feel I have nothing to say and others I think somebody will be offended if I do.<br />
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The protests and riots, corona and covid have all changed things. For many our daily lives don't look like they did a year ago, but yet daily problems still exist. Some are experiencing financial stress, others relationship conflict and some parenting struggles. You can add your own personal trials.<br />
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This adds up to a problem that equals discouragement. So what do we do?<br />
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For me, the first answer is PRAY. I know I need to humble myself and cast my cares. God commands and encourages us to do this. He hears our prayers and listens to our heart. He wants us to connect with Him. We can do that thru prayer.<br />
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Another thing I must do now and always is READ the BIBLE. Information and opinions are readily available, but right now I need wisdom and that can be found in God's Word. The media offers updates constantly, but the Bible provides TRUTH continuously. I believe we need the Truth. Agree?<br />
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Doing these two things helps me SEEK GOD. It's pretty easy to turn on the news or open social media and look to see what is going on in the world. Everyone is ready to tell you their perspective, but friends it's God we need to look to. He's the One with the plan and the power. I must go to Him first and most. How about you?<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gFC1MkU_fkk/XtxhEAFEPSI/AAAAAAAAEo4/cu2N8cY2iHgHAU9IO2Q41niW7BR3NVqGwCEwYBhgLKs4DAL1Ocqw-qHh4XxW-iQkAhpodAhFfjTw4vz40f2kiFPSgwWhddBw2fXuiCnb5Wq6evsoz29qE8jad_whGxiuvHiUnyIe8gzqby_l4-tW2ydFOj9ckPXOK4sO1C3i0aG0KGoTHXe0vvHJRYihiljndF10kDHQGlpB19bh1BSRzewMFvSSSt4F3qjUmRjoBYubgtefSkgH-okfzqLpXE4IKW6KzMBFPiXb1ZFVzLajMa1MtQ1_hjfO-1kvWdOzhqN1mi8lj0jzzS6ssu2jeDYnAT5oI39-uSPoc1ha4s6OHap2VX93MtlPDpT3nhFqkkDsBMf8b9d5mP93XNflSU_pcSF5-lfHnygrb0cKzGp7sthbiFNSEwoFAM84GfJFtskAwzcIUN2wNxt-3ev9Scbq5wv5RxRFv0wyUrmz0nk5umQLBsXeFLtzTyoR9b4wd8t9iaWbWJyYuEf_3-eMTFcyocxHMAF7BiTzhF2-x6O1M_qYV8836NB1qEgGSY6gPGQ-IqRVCiIzJasXm7jysStBj92vLzSWBrGDEovWmxYXdN71PnlZ-8ElKyLahSxtDPgzTZyZ0VskLM3wbuORuyaBDYbssn8MrZ9AAUsfaxSWCML_H8fYF/s1600/apple%2Bpie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gFC1MkU_fkk/XtxhEAFEPSI/AAAAAAAAEo4/cu2N8cY2iHgHAU9IO2Q41niW7BR3NVqGwCEwYBhgLKs4DAL1Ocqw-qHh4XxW-iQkAhpodAhFfjTw4vz40f2kiFPSgwWhddBw2fXuiCnb5Wq6evsoz29qE8jad_whGxiuvHiUnyIe8gzqby_l4-tW2ydFOj9ckPXOK4sO1C3i0aG0KGoTHXe0vvHJRYihiljndF10kDHQGlpB19bh1BSRzewMFvSSSt4F3qjUmRjoBYubgtefSkgH-okfzqLpXE4IKW6KzMBFPiXb1ZFVzLajMa1MtQ1_hjfO-1kvWdOzhqN1mi8lj0jzzS6ssu2jeDYnAT5oI39-uSPoc1ha4s6OHap2VX93MtlPDpT3nhFqkkDsBMf8b9d5mP93XNflSU_pcSF5-lfHnygrb0cKzGp7sthbiFNSEwoFAM84GfJFtskAwzcIUN2wNxt-3ev9Scbq5wv5RxRFv0wyUrmz0nk5umQLBsXeFLtzTyoR9b4wd8t9iaWbWJyYuEf_3-eMTFcyocxHMAF7BiTzhF2-x6O1M_qYV8836NB1qEgGSY6gPGQ-IqRVCiIzJasXm7jysStBj92vLzSWBrGDEovWmxYXdN71PnlZ-8ElKyLahSxtDPgzTZyZ0VskLM3wbuORuyaBDYbssn8MrZ9AAUsfaxSWCML_H8fYF/s320/apple%2Bpie.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Friend, I'm reminded when we do these things consistently we will experience a bit of joy. Now it may not have the immediate impact of that scrumptious bite of pie or taste of a cupcake, but it will last much longer. And instead of ultimately impacting my waistline it will impact my heart. The joy Jesus offers is truly indescribable. And to measure its impact is impossible.<br />
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Nehemiah 8:10b says, <i>"Don't be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength."</i> These words weren't spoken in what we would call a joyful moment. The people were grieving over sin and overcome with condemnation - can anyone relate?<br />
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Friend, if you are a born again believer of Jesus Christ, you aren't known by your sin. Your identity is a child of God. That is a reason to rejoice. When we step back and think about what our relationship with God through Christ really means our focus shifts, our discouragement dwindles and our motivation multiplies.<br />
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This spiritual joy opens the door for spiritual strength. I don't know about you, but I need some spiritual strength these days. It was true in Nehemiah's day and I believe it's true yet today - <i>"The joy of the Lord is our strength." </i><br />
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If you are a sister in Christ, I encourage you to pause for a moment and focus on what is right in your world - your relationship with Jesus. It might be the only thing that is right, but it's all that really matters. Take some time and think about what Jesus provides - salvation and strength, peace and power, love and joy, and the list goes on. Thank Him. Ask Him for all you need.<br />
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If this talk of a relationship with Jesus is new, seek out a pastor or Christian friend, leave me a comment or send me an email at jillberan@yahoo.com. I believe God brought you here for a reason. If you're looking for true, lasting joy you won't find it in a cupcake, but you will in Jesus. Open your heart to Him today.<br />
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You won't leave here satisfied like my daughter's customers, but I pray you walk away encouraged. I hope I've left you with a bit of joy and equipped you to find it again when you feel like it's faded away.<br />
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<i>Heavenly Father, thank you for drawing us close. I'm grateful for who you are and all you do. I'm reminded that no matter what this day holds or how the world changes, you remain the same. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit - grow that in me Lord. Help me share true joy with those around me. May I be strengthened as I rejoice in all you have done. Thank you Lord. In Jesus' Name, Amen. </i><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UKuylJDChDE/XtxQu2AZ9CI/AAAAAAAAEoY/Pin-8urVZqEFFMi2NIAwm4UoYAfbGkdIACEwYBhgLKtQDAL1OcqwPKMKPZE4fMhRcT43q_Zd4EeQhOXByWi8hQZ72TAL2m4x-Fr2JDYg-Cf9O_m1vKFRYEyObuXD5FTHY3Xni6lMacXJ5AQVaI1MzvBPHv4m66gdCNCejmUjJVx88Hb9KGwmDqTidr2w4rV5_T_LeK2KsD3sLoPsmBh02bkkPEx3uNXv0ijnMnf36DgWBc-cabE7ptUNz9DV3XGXA1OHQLzFPAgqmQzAbRijRqqgXsxv-zuk-MCNp-RGO-ngSo43rmifk0pYCEPy0PrhT8RIJupGBsnzgkM0ekN5EGKTkgzec-F9NOqTirgVJqNGD0Pd2H9z0WlnYLp1z6rUaL9i_lXbVjNebKeUbsN8idj4sUlUNE0lhfksmSB8sEbIEe_R4xNpdbtWxbSD7_df0EJMnSPhGkqUaCLHJH7N9EESh_CFLsEILdcua_qW-PYWhrw4lVCfo2HBfI2fDZY_wAloB99aImwKewBiRNN4k1DgYgor-IEnZIJULRKHelqmv8G8NOk1Vn5AkeBwNCEJtpHZKRX285LdsbedUOXQCrMng0vC3gGAQXpOtP9kDpQmZfvl5XIUjB2EnbSdbvoq-2q4jkO6i9P6Th3-9gbtHZdylu5FkMNvH8fYF/s1600/bitjou.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="348" data-original-width="1080" height="103" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UKuylJDChDE/XtxQu2AZ9CI/AAAAAAAAEoY/Pin-8urVZqEFFMi2NIAwm4UoYAfbGkdIACEwYBhgLKtQDAL1OcqwPKMKPZE4fMhRcT43q_Zd4EeQhOXByWi8hQZ72TAL2m4x-Fr2JDYg-Cf9O_m1vKFRYEyObuXD5FTHY3Xni6lMacXJ5AQVaI1MzvBPHv4m66gdCNCejmUjJVx88Hb9KGwmDqTidr2w4rV5_T_LeK2KsD3sLoPsmBh02bkkPEx3uNXv0ijnMnf36DgWBc-cabE7ptUNz9DV3XGXA1OHQLzFPAgqmQzAbRijRqqgXsxv-zuk-MCNp-RGO-ngSo43rmifk0pYCEPy0PrhT8RIJupGBsnzgkM0ekN5EGKTkgzec-F9NOqTirgVJqNGD0Pd2H9z0WlnYLp1z6rUaL9i_lXbVjNebKeUbsN8idj4sUlUNE0lhfksmSB8sEbIEe_R4xNpdbtWxbSD7_df0EJMnSPhGkqUaCLHJH7N9EESh_CFLsEILdcua_qW-PYWhrw4lVCfo2HBfI2fDZY_wAloB99aImwKewBiRNN4k1DgYgor-IEnZIJULRKHelqmv8G8NOk1Vn5AkeBwNCEJtpHZKRX285LdsbedUOXQCrMng0vC3gGAQXpOtP9kDpQmZfvl5XIUjB2EnbSdbvoq-2q4jkO6i9P6Th3-9gbtHZdylu5FkMNvH8fYF/s320/bitjou.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-56209431648587551632020-04-28T08:05:00.001-05:002020-04-28T08:05:17.541-05:00Just QuitA big welcome to my friends from Encouragement Cafe! It is a joy to share my devotional with you today! If you'd like to read, "When You Want to Quit," click <a href="https://www.encouragementcafe.com/post/when-you-want-to-quit?utm_campaign=meetedgar&utm_medium=social&utm_source=meetedgar.com&fbclid=IwAR1uvQ12k1pA9qy82huNGc-FwNM27vvryHRhJiJCLKm2-6NR0szxtl14gt4" target="_blank">HERE</a>. To continue with the quitting theme, I'm going to look at it from a different perspective. It's true we can't quit on our walk of faith, but as we follow Jesus there are things we must quit. Would you agree?<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">In September of 1999, I found myself in the bottom of a pit called depression and felt I'd come to the end. I'd believed those "No Quit" quotes when it came to sports, but applying them to life was more of a challenge. I was ready to quit the game of life, but God intervened.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Thankfully, He kept me from dying physically, but in the process He's led me to die to myself! He continually asks me to live out Galatians 2:20 - “<i>I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me." </i></span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">I've been praying about what I should share here in response to my devotional and it seems God's led me to share some contrary advice, "Just Quit!" The basketball coach in me can't believe I'm saying that, but because Christ is in me, I know that's what I need to do. And friend so do you!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">I'll share the list God has given me:</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Just QUIT listening to lies so that you can hear the voice of Truth.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in Him, </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>"If you abide in My Word, you are truly my disciples, and </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>you will know the Truth and the Truth will set you free." </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>John 8:31-32</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Just QUIT worrying so that you can trust God with all your heart.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>Trust in the Lord with all your heart and </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>lean not on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5</i></span></div>
<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Just QUIT living out of old insecurities so that you can be who God made you to be!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>Therefore, if anyone is in Christ,<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28895A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></span> the new creation<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28895B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></span> has come:<b> </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>The old has gone, the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5:17</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Just Quit busying yourself so that you can do what God ask you to do.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>For we are God’s handiwork,<span class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29240A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></span> created<span class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29240B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></span> in Christ Jesus </i></span></div>
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<i><span style="color: #351c75;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;">to do good works,<span class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29240C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></span> </span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;">which God prepared </span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i><span style="color: #351c75;">in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10</span></i></span></div>
<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Just QUIT holding onto bitterness so that you can forgive and be forgiven.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. Matthew 6:14-15</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Just QUIT running after your dreams so that God's plan can unfold.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>For I know the plans<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19647A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></span> I have for you,” declares the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;">Lord</span>, </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>“plans to prosper<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19647B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></span> you and not to harm you, </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Just QUIT striving for other's approval so that you can earn God's!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>The fear of man lays a snare, </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>but whoever trusts in the <span class="sc">Lord</span> is safe. Proverbs 29:25</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Just QUIT living for yourself so that you can follow Jesus!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>Then He said to them all: <span class="woj">“Whoever wants </span></i></span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><i><span class="woj">to </span></i></span><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><i><span class="woj">be </span></i></span><i style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span class="woj">my disciple must deny themselves </span></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i>and take up their cross daily and follow me. Luke 9:23</i></span><br /><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
Advising someone to quit is not something I do too often, but I pray as you read this list you've been reminded there are somethings we need to just quit. The sinful, selfish stuff we do has to go if we truly want to die to self so that Christ can live. </div>
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Today, I encourage you to spend some time with God, ask Him what you need to quit and then pray for the strength and desire to do just that! Friends, He died so that one day we will live with Him forever, but we can make the choice to die today so that He can live through us now!</div>
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Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-78911211866114552762020-04-24T07:26:00.003-05:002020-04-24T07:26:56.896-05:00Who's In Control<div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #5d5d5d; font-family: Merriweather, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 10px;">
Does it feel like life is out of control? We turn on the news and it seems we see one bad or sad story after another. Closer to home, we make plans and a child’s sickness changes them. Day after day I’m reminded I’m not in control. Can you say the same? </div>
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If you struggle with the battle for control, I invite you to join me at Encouragement Cafe where I'm sharing a devotional asking, "Who's In Control?" The answer just might surprise you and pray it encourages you! </div>
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<br /></div>
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Join me, by clicking <a href="https://www.encouragementcafe.com/post/whos-in-control?utm_campaign=meetedgar&utm_medium=social&utm_source=meetedgar.com&fbclid=IwAR2DGyRT8PW_IMyCwzem91byCKeHXa3Gd4N-qXl2FnAl1ku6SDgD-eDAjrg" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </div>
Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-87448148000745807192020-04-12T07:34:00.001-05:002020-04-12T07:34:51.175-05:00Easter Greetings from our family to yours!<span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy Easter,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Greetings from the Beran family! We hope you and your family
are doing well in the midst of Covid-19! We decided since we didn’t get a Christmas
card out this year, we’d use this extra down time to share an Easter greeting
with you. Like you, our schedules are clear, but we are grateful our reason to
rejoice will never be called off or postponed. Our daily routines have changed,
but the risen Savior we celebrate will forever remain. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Our family is doing well and though one child daily begs to “cancel
school like everyone else,” we continue on our homeschool journey. J.D. is
about to complete 11<sup>th</sup> grade, Joy 9<sup>th</sup>, Jaylyn 7<sup>th</sup>,
Jed 3<sup>rd</sup> and Jesse 2<sup>nd</sup>. They are typically involved with
sports, youth group and FFA. Life on the farm hasn’t stopped, so we stay busy
with pig, calf and chicken chores along with prepping for planting. During this
season of shutdown, we are also missing our extended and church family along
with the regular activities we enjoy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We realize this situation is new for all of us and we know
it provides challenges as well. Some days we enjoy the changes more than
others. This pandemic can create worry of what lies ahead, fear of getting sick
and anxiety about the financial impact that’s sure to come. We’ve been reminded
this is a great opportunity to live out our faith. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: inherit;">In place of the
typical yearly update, we thought we’d bring a word of encouragement. Since the
social distancing began, we’ve tried to find hope, wisdom and perspective in
God’s Word. It provides a solid foundation when we’re shaky, peace in the storm
and Truth to counter lies. We pray the words that have encouraged us, will do
the same for you. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nfuctehqhQQ/XpMKrEVdV4I/AAAAAAAAEkw/6lHMQ-IIvbggE4-Nino5RG2L70I8aoUPwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/covidfamily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="960" height="188" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nfuctehqhQQ/XpMKrEVdV4I/AAAAAAAAEkw/6lHMQ-IIvbggE4-Nino5RG2L70I8aoUPwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/covidfamily.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jesse – “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">But God
demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ
died for us</i>.” (Romans 5:8) Good Friday is a picture of that love; may we
rest in it always.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jed – “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Behold, how
good and pleasant it is when brothers (and sisters) dwell in unity!</i>”(Psalm
133:1) Timely truth for this time of isolation and family togetherness!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jaylyn – <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">"Look, I
(Jesus) am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy
written in this scroll." </i>(Revelation 3:3) We need to be ready for
Jesus’ return; do you know Him as your personal Lord and Savior?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Joy – “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Do not be
anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with
thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God,
which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in
Christ Jesus.”</i> (Philippians 4:6-7) Exchange your worries and fears for
God’s peace and promises – PRAY.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">J.D. – “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">For everything
there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven…”</i> (Ecclesiastes
3:1) God controls the seasons and He also controls Covid-19.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jill – <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Trust in the
Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all
your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”</i> (Proverbs
3:5-6) We don’t understand all that’s going on and that’s OK, we can trust the
One who does.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Job – “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">After he (Jesus)
had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray…”</i> (Matthew
14:23a) Follow Jesus’ example and use this time for prayer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This April, we don’t just want to celebrate Easter, but more
importantly experience the HOPE Jesus brings! We will continue to keep you in
our prayers. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Love,
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Berans<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-24888009627717246642020-04-10T01:03:00.002-05:002020-04-10T01:03:34.892-05:00FinishIt's Good Friday and we continue our Holy Week posts. This day marks the hardest day in Jesus' journey here on Earth. As we walk thru our own difficult, which will truly never compare to what Jesus suffered, may we remember His obedience, sacrifice and strength. Prayers and blessings to you today friend.<br />
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From April 15, 2017<br />
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<a href="https://plattsvillemc.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/it-is-finished.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; clear: left; color: #006677; float: left; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://plattsvillemc.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/it-is-finished.jpg" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="320" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Is it easier for you to start something new or finish the work you've already begun? Personally, both situations present some challenges, but if I had to choose one it would be finishing. Carrying something thru takes time, work and endurance. We face temptations, wrestle with doubts and wonder if it really matters. But if we're truly called to start something, God also expects us to finish it.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">I've been challenged and encouraged by the idea of finishing this Holy Week. I've spent time reflecting on </span><a href="http://titus24u.blogspot.com/2017/04/the-passover-lamb_10.html" style="background-color: white; color: #006677; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Jesus - our Passover Lamb,</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"> been given an example by </span><a href="http://titus24u.blogspot.com/2017/04/what-will-you-do.html" style="background-color: white; color: #006677; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Mary to be a woman who does what I can</a><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.85px;"> and been reminded to be prepared. But yesterday as I read through the story of crucifixion and reflected on Jesus' sacrifice for me, "Finish" was the message I received.</span></span></span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">In John 19:28 we read, </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">"Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I am thirsty."</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"> Friend, Jesus was hanging on the cross, He'd done his job of being sacrificed for sin, but yet He still submitted to the Father. He did what God sent Him to do.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">John 4:34 states, "</span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">My food is to do the will of Him sent and finish His work</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">." While John 12:49 says, </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">"For I did not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me to say all that I have spoken</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">." Even to the end, in unbelievable pain and distress, Jesus was obedient.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">John 19:30 states this clearly, "</span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">When He had received the drink, Jesus said, 'It is finished.' With that, He bowed His head and gave up His spirit."</i><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Stop and think about this for a minute. When it was hard, people didn't understand and the pain was unbearable Jesus didn't quit. Can you say the same? I can't, but I've been convicted, and encouraged, that I need to change. God equipped Jesus to finish what He started, I have to believe He can do the same for me.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Friend, He can do it for you too. Let's go to God and ask Him to help us persevere and let's look to Jesus as the example of One who finished well.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Heavenly Father,</i><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><i style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.85px;">Thank you for again speaking to me through your living and active Word. Use it to penetrate my mind and soul, transform me Lord so I can be like you. Thank you Jesus for finishing the work you started, for dying for my sins and fulfilling Scripture. May I learn from your example and be more like you. I'm also reminded that a wait followed the completion of your work, help me remember that and trust your timing Father. This Easter season may we celebrate your resurrecting power, our victory over sin and death and the reminder that finishing is important. Father God, you are good, your are mighty and you are worthy of our praise. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen</span></span></i>Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-25094339758586681382020-04-09T01:30:00.000-05:002020-04-09T01:30:04.194-05:00Easter Changes EverythingWe're over a month into Covid-19 here in Iowa and I've been doing a lot of thinking. That's not always a good thing - like when I'm thinking about what I thought would be going on or wondering how long this is going to last. But when I find myself thinking about God's promises, Jesus' journey and my faith it is a very good thing.<br />
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Friend, this time away from what we had planned can be productive. If it allows, or maybe even forces, us to reevaluate our lives and ourselves God can use it for good. I know one thing it has made me think more about a is there will one day be another event that many never expect to happen. Jesus will return. Are we prepared? Perhaps this Easter will be the one that changes everything for you!<br />
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From April 17, 2014<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2px;">As Easter draws near I find myself thinking about many things...what God did for me, the level of Jesus' obedience and the power of the resurrection. I'm thinking about what I should do next as we prep to host 30+ family members on Sunday. I also find myself praying and asking God to help my children understand the real meaning of the holiday. And it may sound crazy but this year I've also thought about hollow chocolate Easter bunnies.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2px;">Of all the Easter treats available this is not the one I'd choose, but the other day I started thinking about them. You see every year for as long as I can remember I, or my children, have received these from my grandma B and this is our first Easter without her. Ten months have gone by and I think about her often and this year those thoughts have me thinking about Easter more.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 10px;">Easter 2013 - Grandma B giving Jesse his bunny!</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2px;">The other day I read a simple but profound statement - </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2px;">"</b><em style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Century Gothic", AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Easter changes everything!"</b> </em><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A year ago I would have agreed with that statement, but now I know it and believe it. So take a minute with me and let's look at what Easter is all about...the best thing I can encourage you to do is read Luke 22-24 or John 12-20. Friend, God's Word is living and active and I know He will speak to you if you sit with Him.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm not sure it's possible for me to summarize the events of what we now call Holy Week, but let me share a few highlights - the Last Supper where Jesus modeled humility; Judas, one of Jesus' disciples, betrayed Him; Jesus prayed (even for you and me...see John 17:20-26); He was arrested; Peter, another one of His disciples denied Him; He was tried and crucified; He was buried and three days later rose again. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">That is quite a list of events, but can I share with you that it's more than a slice of history? Friend, I viewed it that way for years, but it's different now...I believe Easter, and the Jesus we celebrate, change everything! This holiday is about so much, but I want to focus on the resurrecting power of the God I serve. Jesus, the Son of God, died. He was buried and many grieved the loss of the One they followed and loved, but God. God intervened and fulfilled the plan He sent Jesus to live out. He resurrected Him from the dead and He lived again.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">That alone is an amazing story, but it does NOT end there! Friend, God still has that resurrecting power. Romans 10:9 tells us, "<i>If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.</i>" God didn't just save Jesus, if we believe He will save us too.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Believing in Him and seeking a personal relationship with our Lord and Savior will save us for eternity, but again there is more. This power that God possess doesn't just make a way to heaven possible, it makes it possible for us to walk through life. A life that is hard, full of pain and can be depressing. A life that's kind of like that hollow chocolate bunny - empty and without much purpose. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Friend, I've been thinking about Easters past and I hate to admit there was a time when it was just another commercial holiday, a vacation from school and a family get together. I'd serve at the sunrise breakfast and sing for Sunday School, but I didn't really focus on what it was all about. I knew in my head that Jesus died and rose again, but in my heart I really didn't understand.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you find yourself in that place today, I want you to know this is so much more than another holiday! Jesus' life, death and resurrection have the power to transform you. If you find yourself empty, stressed or depressed, He can fill you, give you peace and purpose. He will dry your tears, purify your heart and change your life. He died so that we could live...forever in heaven and abundantly here on Earth!!</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I want you to know trusting Jesus won't take the pain away and magically make your life perfect. My life still includes pain - I've even shed tears as I type...my first Easter without Grandma B will be different and Saturday the 19th, the day before Easter would have been our little ones birthday, but 5+ years ago we had a miscarriage. The truth is sometimes God doesn't use His power in the way we'd like, but I've come to believe He uses it in the way He knows is best!! </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So today, though my heart is heavy and my plate is full, I am grateful. I'm thankful I know Easter changes everything and friend my prayer is you can say the same!!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><i>Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with Him. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><i>For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, He cannot die again; </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><i>death no longer has mastery over Him. The death He died, He died to sin once for all; </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><i>but the life He lives, He lives to God. In the same way, </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><i>count yourselves dead to sin </i></span><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><i>but alive to God in Christ Jesus</i></span><i style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">.</i><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">(Romans 6:8-11 NIV)</span></div>
Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-33859113078540285622020-04-08T01:30:00.001-05:002020-04-08T01:30:10.485-05:00LabelsFrom April 1, 2013<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">My husband and daughters returned home from a shopping trip...they'd left with the intentions of finding the girls' new Easter dresses. (This was my husband's idea.) They came home with what they were looking for and more. Excitement took over the house when they unveiled the dress they bought for me, the gal who's worn a dress once in the last 12 years. And that was to my wedding.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Needless to say I wasn't part of the excitement - the girls were thrilled, my husband just smiled and my oldest son was insistent that I wear it.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Anyway I decided to humor them and try it on. That's when the situation went from bad to worse. I looked at the tag and it was 3 sizes </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">bigger</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"> than I normally wear. Instantly my mind took over, "That's the size he thinks I wear? Our baby's almost two I need to lose some weight." And the final thought that came was, "I am not wearing this dress."</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">So the next day came and I returned the dress. Knowing my kids were more than excited for me to wear a dress, I did exchange it, but the one I found in my size was different than the one my husband picked out. I really didn't think it was a big deal, but by the following night I knew something was wrong.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">I asked my husband what was up and he said, "I don't know why this is bothering me, but it's the dress. And the fact you took it back. I didn't even know you didn't like it." I responded, "Job, I don't wear that size. It's 3 sizes too big!!" In return he says, "I know, but I know you don't like things tight and they looked so small. It looked nice on you."</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">I listened, but I'm not sure I really heard him. (If you know what I mean?) I simply said, "I'll take it back. Maybe we should just forget the whole thing; it's kind of a waste of money for something I'll never wear again."</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Two days later, I took the dress back and thought: I'll be a good wife, buy the original dress, wear it and make everyone happy. Well, everyone but me!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">So Easter morning arrives and I still had no desire to wear the dress, but I had 5 little people who were very excited about it!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">We headed out the door with everyone smiling and me silently praying, "Lord, help me focus on YOU, forget about this dress and not worry about what everyone will say." And friend, I have to admit He answered my prayer.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Many people shared words about the dress...though no one said it was too BIG or that I looked funny! (Though I sure felt like I did!!) As we left the church yard a good friend said something about the dress and my husband replied, "You mean the one we bought twice?!?"</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">With that statement God had my attention as He quickly spoke to my heart amongst the chaos of a vehicle filled with 5 energized little people!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">He whispered to me, "Jill, you were focusing on the label. That label means nothing...think about the love Job was showing. How about the love others shared as well with their kind words? What about your kids, they have no idea what size you are and they love you."</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">And then on Resurrection Sunday He continued, "Jill, the size label on your dress doesn't matter to me either. Neither do labels from your past or other people. You are who I say you are - Loved, Forgiven, My Daughter, a Gifted Girl and my Chosen Child. Those are the labels that matter! Today, you celebrate the day I bought you with the blood of My Son...Jill, that's something I only have to do once. My love and forgiveness is not something you can return or exchange, so please accept it. And daughter, do the same with the love your family is showering upon you as well!"</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Friend, I don't know if I'll ever wear the dress again, but I don't think I'll ever forget the lesson it taught me. I pray you will join me in letting go of what the labels say and focus on who God says we are!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br />
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Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-90744599007317528412020-04-07T01:30:00.000-05:002020-04-07T01:30:00.328-05:00What will you do?<div>
From April 11, 2017</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">As Holy Week continues I find myself still reflecting on the </span><a href="http://titus24u.blogspot.com/2017/04/the-passover-lamb_10.html" style="background-color: white; color: #006677; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Passover Lamb</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"> and reading passages about Jesus' last days. This morning I was in the last few chapters of Mark and these words from 14:8 haven't left my mind - "</span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">She did what she could." </i><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">This is a sentence Jesus spoke about the woman who annointed him. In other Gospels we learn this was Mary...sister to Lazarus and Martha. The one who had earlier sat at Jesus feet was now annointing them.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Stop for a minute and think about what she did and how she did it. She broke open a bottle of expensive perfume; some historians believe it was worth a year's wages. She poured it out, not saving any for herself.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">She placed herself in a position that most likely would be questioned. As a woman, she was among men. She used her hair, a sign of her glory, to wipe Jesus' feet, a job reserved for the lowest of low. She had humbled herself and broke free from the fear of what others would think.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Friend, chances are you've read this story before, but have you let this story read you? I feel like God's been examining my heart all day thru the lens of this short story and even smaller sentence.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Mary did what she could. She didn't rely on her position, but took advantage of her opportunity. Do I do the same? Do you? Every day we have an opportunity to do what we can do, but do we?</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Granted Jesus is not here in the flesh and His body no longer needs to be prepared for burial, but His people are here and His body (you and me) have gifts to use and roles to play.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">When it comes to work, I'm not talking a 9 to 5 job, but the life you live - Are you doing what you can or simply what you have to or worse yet what you want to?</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">When it comes to worship, again not just a Sunday morning service, but in our daily life - Are we doing just what's necessary or are we doing all we can?</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">These aren't quick, easy answer questions, but they are important, powerful self-examination tools. As we prepare for Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday, may we quiet our hearts, ask God to examine them and prepare to give Jesus all of them.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Mary sacrificed her perfume and she also surrendered herself. May you and I do the same. Jesus did what He could, I pray we will too.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Our external actions may not change, but our internal attitude will...instead of a focus on self, may we live with the desire to serve. Rather than holding back and fearing what others think, may we walk in faith and set an example for others to follow. May we worship the One who's worthy instead of wasting time on idols that are truly worthless.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Friend, I don't know what these 5 words stirred in your heart, but I'm praying now for God to use them in your life to help you do what He created you to do. It cost Mary and we too will pay a price, but may we remember it's an investment that will never fail! Today let's do what we can do for the Lord we love.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Heavenly Father, I want to be a woman who does what I can. Help me stop being one who does what I must or have to, but one who serves You wholeheartedly. May I count the cost and be willing to pay the price. May I throw myself at your feet and love you without fear. Help me worship you without worry. Father God, thank you for drawing me close and helping me know You more. Your Word truly is living and active, continue using it to transform me. Father, I thank you for the gift of your Son and the filling of your Holy Spirit. May I do what you created me to do...glorify you. In Jesus' Name, Amen</i></div>
Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-86755960956625024142020-04-06T01:30:00.000-05:002020-04-06T07:15:28.976-05:00The Passover Lamb<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; text-align: left;">
Welcome back for my Easter series! If you missed yesterday's post, "Part of the Crowd" click <a href="https://titus24u.blogspot.com/2020/04/part-of-crowd.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. I hope these words about the passover lamb lead you to think about Jesus, the One who is our passover lamb. </div>
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From April 10, 2017</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">"Do you want to try and sell those lambs?" My husband's words in the early morning had my attention. He had mentioned this briefly earlier in the week, but this time instead of going to my head his words went to my heart.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Our kids have been raising 4 orphan lambs and they will eventually grow up and be sent to market, but my reaction to putting them up for sale now, while they are still young and kind of like a pet, hit me. The thought of someone using them - Skittle, Beefy, Oreo and the lamb with a changing name, for a passover meal made me sad.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">The conversation didn't go any further, but my thoughts continued to run and they led me to the Word. Friend, we are in the midst of holy week and for the first time in 41 years, I find myself thinking about the Passover lamb in a real personal way. I encourage you to do the same in the days to come.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Did you know during the original Passover, the lamb played a significant role? First of all in Egypt, a lamb was sacred, it was considered to be a god of sorts and was worshipped by the Egyptians. Clearly, the Lord had their attention when He commanded the Isrealites to "take a lamb for their family" (Exodus 12:3). The Isrealites exercised their faith and courage by obeying this command.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">They didn't just take any lamb...it had to be a year old male without defect. (Exodus 12:5) These animals were in their prime and were the best of the flock.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">The lambs weren't simply selected and quickly sacrificed...they were chosen on the 10th day and slaughtered on day 14. (Exodus 12:6) In between they were cared for...typically in the home. Think about what took place in that time. I'm sure there were messes and noise. There was also time to grow attached and hours set aside to inspect. The people were surrendering normalcy and eventually something they loved.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">This story mirrors what took place years later in Jerusalem - Jesus rode into the city and was welcomed as the One who would save. For the next 4 days, He too was set apart and inspected. Just like the lamb, He was found to be spotless and without defect. (1 Peter 1:19) During that time, the people saw him work, learned from His teachings and grew to know Him more.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Friend, chances are you celebrated Palm Sunday yesterday and like the people of years gone by said, "Hosanna, blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" You may have plans to attend a Maundy Thursday service or a Last Supper Remembrance meal later this week. Countless services are scheduled for Friday and Sunday of this coming week as well. These events are important and powerful, but I challenge, and encourage, you to treasure the days to come.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">We will not be bringing a lamb into our home, but I've invited thee Lamb into my heart. In the days to come I long to learn from Him and grow closer to Him as I prepare to reflect on His sacrifice and praise my Savior. I hope you will consider doing the same.</span><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Heavenly Father, </i><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Lord, thank you for continually speaking into my heart and revealing more of yourself. I'm humbled to know you care and know me in such a personal way. As this Holy Week unfolds, may it be a time of reflection and relationship building. Draw me closer to Yourself as I sit with you, study your Word and experience your presence. Thank you for being my passover Lamb - your sinless life saved me from the sin in mine. Increase my understanding of this and gratitude for it. Today I struggled with the thought of giving up one of our lambs for a meal, but Father God you gave up your Son for me - thank you. May I give up my life for you. In Jesus' Name, Amen</i>Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-57079127696404299192020-04-05T13:11:00.001-05:002020-04-05T13:11:31.656-05:00Part of the Crowd<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">It's Palm Sunday - a reason to rejoice! This Palm Sunday looks different than any I've ever celebrated because in the midst of Covid-19, we are worshipping at home. I'm grateful though much has changed, some things remain the same. The Word of God is unchanging. Our reason to celebrate will forever remain. Our ever present God is always with us. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">God's put it on my heart to share a post each day this week. Reflections of the past. It's crazy to think I've been sharing on this blog for almost 12 years. Much has changed and my faith has grown. God led me to start it in 2008 and He's spoken to me through each and every post. He's led me to write because He knows I need to read it. And as the faithful God He is, He works through the work He asks us to do. I pray He continues that work as you join me this Holy Week to prepare our hearts for Resurrection Sunday. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">As you read, if He puts something on your heart, leave a comment. I'd love to hear what He's speaking to you. We can't gather together physically, but He's brought us here and we can praise Him for the work He's doing and seek Him together. Friend, I pray this week is a powerful one as you journey towards your Jerusalem with Jesus! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">From April 16, 2019</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Crowds aren't my favorite thing. I'd rather visit with you one on one, but I've found in a big group of people it is pretty easy to blend in. In a crowd, it's tempting to go with the flow and simple to lose yourself in the masses. Friend, this holy week I'd like to encourage you to think about something that's been on my mind - Are you part of the crowd?</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Jesus dealt with crowds as well and he was never wrongly influenced by them. Let's make sure we aren't either.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Mass groups of people played a role in Christianity back then and they still do today. Let's take some time and get a closer look. Matthew 21:6-11 paints the picture for us. Here we read -</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333;" /><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><br /></i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"></span></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text Matt-21-6" id="en-NIV-23833" style="box-sizing: border-box;">The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them.</span> <span class="text Matt-21-7" id="en-NIV-23834" style="box-sizing: border-box;">They brought the donkey and the colt and placed their cloaks on them for Jesus to sit on.</span><span class="text Matt-21-8" id="en-NIV-23835" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"> </span>A very large crowd spread their cloaks<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-23835F" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23835F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road.<b> </b></span><span class="text Matt-21-9" id="en-NIV-23836" style="box-sizing: border-box;">The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted,</span></span></i></div>
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<span class="text Matt-21-9" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Hosanna to the Son of David!”<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-23836G" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23836G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span></span></i></span></div>
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<span class="text Matt-21-9" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”</span></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Hosanna in the highest heaven!”</span></i></div>
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<span class="text Matt-21-10" id="en-NIV-23837" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?”</span></i></span></div>
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<span class="text Matt-21-11" id="en-NIV-23838" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">The crowds answered, “This is Jesus, the prophet<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-23838J" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23838J" title="See cross-reference J">J</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> from Nazareth in Galilee.” </span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Did you notice a mention of crowds? What's your takeaway?<br /><br />To me it seems Jesus' triumphant entry was met by many. They were welcoming him, cutting branches and announcing his coming. The whole city was stirred. That's a lot of people and activity and excitement.<br /><br />In our world, Easter and Christmas morning might look a bit like this. We have more people than usual attending church services. Though Christianity is under attack, the world still recognizes these days and celebrates them as well. There is an excitement in the air and joy fills our hearts as we think of the newborn King and our risen Savior.<br /><br />Let's fast forward in the story just a bit. Join me in reading Matthew 27:55-56 -<br /><i><br /></i><i><span class="text Matt-27-55" id="en-ESV-24181" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;">There were also <span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-24181AK" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-24181AK" title="See cross-reference AK">AK</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span>many women there, looking on <span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-24181AL" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-24181AL" title="See cross-reference AL">AL</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span>from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, <span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-24181AM" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-24181AM" title="See cross-reference AM">AM</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span>ministering to him,</span> <span class="text Matt-27-56" id="en-ESV-24182" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">56 </span>among whom were <span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-24182AN" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-24182AN" title="See cross-reference AN">AN</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span>Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Joseph and <span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-24182AO" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-24182AO" title="See cross-reference AO">AO</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span>the mother of the sons of Zebedee.</span></i><br /><span class="text Matt-27-56" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><br /></span><span class="text Matt-27-56" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;">Let's also look at John 19:25 - </span><br /><span class="text Matt-27-56" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><br /></span><i>Near the cross<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-26851E" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26851E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> of Jesus stood his mother,<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-26851F" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26851F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.</i><br /><br />Do you notice a difference? What has happened? Where's the crowd?<br /><br />Friend, this may be a simple thing to overlook in the story of Jesus' last days, but I think it holds a lesson for us. The number of people at Jesus' side has surely changed and so have his circumstances.<br /><br />What happens when our circumstances change? When the excitement of Christmas prep and Easter fun fades does our zeal for faith do the same? When trials come do we run from God or cling to Christ? When life is busy do we go with the flow and put our faith to the side? Are we content to be part of the crowd and praise Christ when it's convenient?<br /><br />You don't have to tell me your answers, but I hope you take time to think about these questions. This holy week let's spend time reflecting on the Word and preparing our hearts for Resurrection Sunday, but may we also commit to following Christ wherever the road leads. Let's celebrate His coming and stay by His side always!</span></div>
Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-42146871666343522142020-03-15T22:49:00.001-05:002020-03-15T22:51:00.875-05:00An Opportune Time <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There is much going on in our world today that we don't understand and can't control. I can say this is unlike anything I've experienced; chances are you can say the same. This can leave us scared, anxious and fearful. Some are upset and disappointed. At times our emotions change as fast as the CDC's recommendations, but I want to encourage you to use this time for your good and God's glory. Take a few moments to consider the following -<br />
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<b>Check Your Heart</b></div>
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Last week as this all started to hit a bit closer to home we, as a sports loving family, had a discussion. First the Big 12 Tournament was cancelled and then March Madness. When the NCAA cancelled spring sports, I told my daughter it was possible her freshman track season may not happen. She was upset. </div>
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It was then we had to step back. It was a great opportunity to check our hearts and truly see what was number one. Sports are good and teach countless life lessons, but they can be an idol in our lives. This break in our normal routine and our response to what is missed is a good opportunity to check our hearts. Do we truly live out Deuteronomy 6:5? It says, "<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Lo<span style="background-color: white; color: #001320; text-align: justify;">ve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength</span></i></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #001320; text-align: justify;"><i style="font-family: Roboto, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">." </i><span style="font-family: inherit;">How about Exodus 20:3? "<i>You shall have no other gods before me."</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #001320; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Remember</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #001320; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In this time of unknown, we must remember TRUTH. It can be easy to be consumed with what we don't know and worry about what is to come, but it is helpful to remember what we know. A few verses that bring me peace and perspective are - </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background-color: white;">And when the </span><span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;">Lord</span><span style="background-color: white;"> smelled </span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-205I" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-205I" title="See cross-reference I">I</a>)" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span><span style="background-color: white;">the pleasing aroma, the </span><span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;">Lord</span><span style="background-color: white;"> said in his heart, “I will never again </span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-205J" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-205J" title="See cross-reference J">J</a>)" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span><span style="background-color: white;">curse</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;">the ground because of man, for </span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-205K" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-205K" title="See cross-reference K">K</a>)" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span><span style="background-color: white;">the intention of man's heart is evil from his youth. </span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-205L" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-205L" title="See cross-reference L">L</a>)" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span></i><span style="background-color: white;"><i>Neither will I ever again strike down every living creature as I have done."</i> (Genesis 8:21)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background-color: white;">And we know that for those who love God all things work together </span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-28129BA" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-28129BA" title="See cross-reference BA">BA</a>)" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span><span style="background-color: white;">for good, </span><span style="background-color: white;">for </span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-28129BB" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-28129BB" title="See cross-reference BB">BB</a>)" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span></i><span style="background-color: white;"><i>those who are called according to his purpose. </i>(Romans 8:28)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text Jer-29-11" id="en-NIV-19647" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"> </span>For I know the plans<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-19647T" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19647T" title="See cross-reference T">T</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> I have for you,” declares the <span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;">Lord</span>, “plans to prosper<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-19647U" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19647U" title="See cross-reference U">U</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-19647V" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19647V" title="See cross-reference V">V</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><i> </i>(Jeremiah 29:11)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">As we look to the future it's powerful to remember God's faithfulness in the past. Remembering who God is (faithful, powerful, present, good, etc...) helps us trust Him more and equips us to live out the suggestions that follow. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Pray</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">When events are being cancelled and our lives aren't as busy, we must remember there is always something we can (and must) do. Friend, we can pray. We can cry out to God, the creator of the world, the one who has planned the future and understands what we don't. He instructs us to cry out to Him. We can ask for help, wisdom, patience, whatever it is we need. Pray for your family, your church, your friends, doctors, leaders, all who come to mind. God hears and answers. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">"<i>Then you will call to me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you." </i>(Jeremiah 29:12)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text Phil-4-6" id="en-NIV-29449" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><i>Do not be anxious about anything,<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-29449H" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29449H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.</i><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-29449I" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29449I" title="See cross-reference I">I</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"> (Philippians 4:6)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Practice</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">As I mentioned we are a sports loving family, so we understand the importance of practice. Every </span></span>competitor knows they must improve their skills and work on them daily; the same can be said for believers. It's one thing to know what the Bible says, but it's another to do it. As I thought about this today a few of the first things that came to my mind were about using my words wisely, controlling my thoughts and being content. God provides endless directions and priceless wisdom, it will benefit us and those around us if we live out His Word. Here are a few verses to get you started -</div>
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<i>Be still and know that I am God. </i>(Psalm 46:10) </div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span class="text Phil-4-8" id="en-NIV-29451" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;">Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></i><span class="text Phil-4-9" id="en-NIV-29452" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><i>Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice.<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-29452L" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29452L" title="See cross-reference L">L</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> And the God of peace<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-29452M" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29452M" title="See cross-reference M">M</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> will be with you.</i> (Philippians 4:8-9)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background-color: white;">Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths,</span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-29302A" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29302A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span><span style="background-color: white;"> but only what is helpful for building others up</span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-29302B" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29302B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span></i><span style="background-color: white;"><i> according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.</i> (Ephesians 4:29)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. </i>(Psalm 56:3)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text Phil-4-11" id="en-NIV-29454" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic;">I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-29454A" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29454A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> whatever the circumstances.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-style: italic;"> </span><span class="text Phil-4-12" id="en-NIV-29455" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic;">I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry,<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-29455B" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29455B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> whether living in plenty or in want.<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-29455C" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29455C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-style: italic;"> </span><span class="text Phil-4-13" id="en-NIV-29456" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><i>I can do all this through him who gives me strength. </i>(Philippians 4:11-13)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Know God and Make Him Known</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Our lives for the next few weeks will most likely look different than we expected. The change in schedule will most likely give us time to do things we normally don't; as we wait we can waste our time or make the most of it. One of the best things we can do in this time is get to know God more. Without the need to go to another game or event, we can spend time in God's Word and prayer. We can cultivate the relationship we have with one we never have to be seperated from. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background-color: white;">What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing</span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-29430A" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29430A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span><span style="background-color: white;"> Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ...</span></i></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">(Philippians 3:8)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As we get to know God it is important to remember we can also make Him known. In a time when others are anxious and losing hope as believers it's important to live out 1 Peter 3:15 - "</span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect..." </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Friend, the situation we all face should leave us grateful for the faith we have. Times like this remind us we are not in control, but hopefully they will turn more to the One we know has everything under control. I write these words for you and me because this isn't a winter storm that will be over in a few days. We're all in the unknown together, but through it all may we remember the One we know. Our world has changed, but our God has not. </span></span></div>
Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-49191567539403329092020-03-10T19:10:00.001-05:002020-03-10T21:44:48.996-05:00Someone's Watching<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This weekend the Cyclones enjoyed one of their biggest wins in program history. Iowa State defeated Baylor and ended their 58 game win streak in the Big 12 Conference. Added to the excitement was the fact that the back and forth game was tied with 0.1 seconds left. It was then ISU headed to the free throw line and Ashley Joens hit the game winner. Then the celebration began.<br />
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Cyclone fans everywhere were thrilled! Including those gathered around the screen in my house. Earlier in the game, my daughter Jaylyn was disappointed because she wanted to be in Ames, but as the intensity increased on the court hers did the same in our home. It truly was a fun game to experience even from afar.<br />
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There was more than joy from a win. Our pastor often encourages us to let life preach because if our eyes are open God is always at work. This was true even as I watched a basketball game. My daughter Jaylyn wanted to be in Ames because she wanted to watch her favorite Cyclone, Maddie Wise, play in her last home game.<br />
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As the 3rd quarter began Maddie wasn't playing and Jaylyn strayed from the screen and joined a Nerf gun war with her brothers. We called her back when we saw Maddie checking in. From that point on, Jaylyn was locked in...even when Maddie returned to the bench.<br />
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The intensity increased. Our nerves kicked in. Even my wrestling boys were watching. There were big shots and big defensive stops. There were lots of things to see and comment on, but Jaylyn's words were about Maddie. She wasn't noticing a great drive or an important pass, but her response on the bench. Every time her team had success, she was the first to cheer or offer a high five. Jaylyn saw every reaction and pointed it out to us. </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">As her mom, and coach, I was grateful. She can watch highlight videos anyday and see great plays, but being a great teammate isn't something as easy to observe. All season we've been talking to our kids about this - reminding them WE > me and encouraging them to play together with their teammates. It's one thing to hear it from me, but so much more powerful for my girl to see it lived out by one she looks up to. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Later that night I found myself thinking about this again. Initially, I was grateful for the important picture that had been etched on my daughter's heart, but then God took the thoughts deeper. Clearly, I'm not the basketball star, but my girl is watching me too. My every reaction doesn't excite her, but she sees what I do and hears what I say. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">My actions are sending a message too. Not only to Jaylyn, but her sister and 3 brothers as well. Friend, the same is true for you. You may not be a "Hero" in a young girls eyes, but even more important you can be a witness for Christ. It's not just the young people who are watching - family members, co-workers and strangers too are impacted by what we say and do. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">When Jaylyn watches Maddie and other favorite players in action, she sees them shoot, pass, play D, rebound and cheer on the bench. When they see you and me as believers, they watch us walk thru trials and interact with others. When we have the opportunity to choose humility over pride, they are watching. When it's time to trust or doubt, their eyes are on us. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Read the following verses and pause for a moment to think: Does the one who's watching see you live this out?</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">"<i>Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight</i>." Proverbs 3:5</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">"<i>Consider it pure joy my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.</i>" James 1:2-3</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">"<i>Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen</i>." Ephesians 4:29</span></div>
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<span class="text Col-3-12" id="en-NIV-29530" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"<i>Therefore, as God’</i></span></span><i><span style="background-color: white;">s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves</span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-29530AA" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29530AA" title="See cross-reference AA">AA</a>)" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;">with compassion, kindness, humility,</span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-29530AB" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29530AB" title="See cross-reference AB">AB</a>)" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;">gentleness a</span><span class="text Col-3-12" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">nd patience. </span></span></i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span class="text Col-3-13" id="en-NIV-29531" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; text-align: start;">Bear with each other<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-29531AD" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29531AD" title="See cross-reference AD">AD</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-29531AE" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29531AE" title="See cross-reference AE">AE</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span></span><span style="background-color: white; text-align: start;"> </span></i><span class="text Col-3-14" id="en-NIV-29532" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; text-align: start;"><i>And over all these virtues put on love,<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-29532AF" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29532AF" title="See cross-reference AF">AF</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> which binds them all together in perfect unity.</i>" Colossians 3:12-14</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">"<i>Am I now trying to win the approval of man or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ."</i> Galatians 1:10</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text Col-3-14" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; text-align: start;">"<i>Wives submit to your husbands as to the Lord.</i>" Ephesians 5:22</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text Col-3-14" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; text-align: start;">I could continue, but I'm guessing you get the idea. Pause for a moment and pray asking God to search your heart and bring to mind what others see when they watch you. If something needs to change, ask Him to give you guidance from His Word and help from His Spirit to make the change. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text Col-3-14" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; text-align: start;">I'm sure a competitive division 1 athlete like Maddie would much rather have Jaylyn watching her hit the game winning shot or make a key defensive play, but the lesson she taught from the bench is priceless. Some of the things God asks us to live out will be challenging as well, but may we remember they will serve a purpose!!</span></span></div>
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Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-48995137959593902402020-02-25T19:03:00.001-06:002020-02-25T19:03:55.545-06:00What to do with a loss...Last Sunday we enjoyed a family trip to Ames to watch the Iowa State women play basketball in the afternoon and then saw our first wrestling meet in Hilton. Jaylyn was excited to not only watch the game, but also for the opportunity to say hi to her favorite Cyclone, Maddie Wise. The game was intense and entertaining. The home team fell behind, but fought their way back only to lose on a questionable foul in the final seconds. It was a heartbreaker.<br />
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Following the game, we met up with Maddie. Everyone enjoyed the conversation, took some pics and had some laughs. Jaylyn was thrilled and our little wrestler was Maddie's new #1 fan! Our time together came to close, but soon a lesson would unfold.<br />
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This morning there was much on my mind, but it seemed losing was on my heart. This past week my daughter's high school season ended with a loss and so did my son's wrestling season earlier in the month. A good friend's high school career was ended as well. And now the Cyclone loss.<br />
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Losing is part of sports and really it's part of life. It's never something we set out to do, but it's something we must handle rightly. This is never easy and it's especially been a struggle for Jaylyn, so this morning I asked her, "Are you glad Maddie met up with us?" Without hesitation she smiled and said, "Yes!" Then I questioned, "Do you think it was kind of hard after a loss like that?" The girl who tends to go into the sad and silent mode with every defeat simply shook her head.<br />
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She was so focused on seeing her friend that I don't think she'd really thought about how Maddie was feeling. I was grateful we could use her example to help my girl learn to walk thru a defeat a bit better. As I shared the lesson with my young people, God urged me to pay attention as well. So friend, you may not be an athlete and perhaps you're not even a coach, but I trust you experience losing in your life. If so, read on; if not, celebrate your success!!<br />
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When it comes to losing I've learned there are three important things we must do -<br />
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ACKNOWLEDGE IT - I will never forget my varsity coach saying these words to me, "You should feel bad when you lose." I already felt bad and in the moment his statement didn't make me feel any better. Thru the years, I've gained a better understanding and appreciation for what he was implying. As a competitor, losing is not your goal. In life, falling short is not what we set out to do, but sometimes it happens. When it does, it's OK to feel bad. We should feel bad. I tell the girls I coach I'm thankful they feel bad after a loss because then I know they care. When a loss comes, respond to it and own it.<br />
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LEARN FROM IT - This same coach offered the following insightful words, "Sometimes losing is better than winning. You can learn more from a loss." Again these words baffled me before they ever benefitted me, but now I understand there is some truth to what he was saying. Losing gets our attention and opens our eyes to weaknesses. It helps us refocus and increases our intensity. If we move past the poor me mentality that can come with a loss, we can learn from it and become better because of it.<br />
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MOVE ON FROM IT - It can be tempting to get stuck in our loss. Losing can create fear and doubt; it can mess with our heart and our mind. After we've acknowledged the loss and learned from it, we must turn the page. Our focus has to be forward. We can't change the loss, but we can control what we do because of it.<br />
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Our quick visit with Maddie gave my daughter a picture of what to do after a loss and reminded all of us to keep a loss in perspective. Like my grandma always told me, there are worse things in life than losing a game. And like my volleyball loving sister always reminded there's more to life than basketball.<br />
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Friend, both those statements are true, but sports and losing can and do impact our life. As believers they also impact our walk of faith. So the most important and powerful encouragement I can share with you comes from God's Word. In the Bible we find instruction on what to do with a loss -<br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span class="text Jas-1-2" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;">"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds,</span><span class="text Jas-1-3" id="en-NIV-30270" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"> </span>because you know that the testing of your faith<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-30270G" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-30270G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> produces perseverance.<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-30270H" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-30270H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span class="text Jas-1-4" id="en-NIV-30271" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;">Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-30271I" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-30271I" title="See cross-reference I">I</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> and complete,</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span class="text Jas-1-4" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"> not lacking anything."</span></i></span></div>
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<span class="text Jas-1-4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span>Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-30130061143870799062020-01-25T22:20:00.000-06:002020-01-25T22:20:23.460-06:00More than a GameI found myself in the gym yet again today...I've been there a lot these last few months, but today I wasn't a coach or a mom, I was a fan. The change of pace was good and I was reminded of much. I had plenty of time to reflect on our 2+ hour drive home from Ames and I'm grateful for all I learned. Perhaps there's a lesson for you as well!<br />
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First of all, basketball is more than a game. It is a form of entertainment...especially at the D1 level with the pep band, jumbotron and constant noise. The game brings joy as well...a big shot, nice defensive play and all out hustle bring smiles to faces and creates claps in the crowd. Deeper joy comes when you see the bench celebrate the starters' success and watch a gal offer her opponent help getting up.<br />
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Secondly, basketball is not just about X's and O's or winning and losing, it's about people. Without the responsibility of coaching and nervousness of watching my children, I had more freedom to observe. What I saw reminded me of the relationships that are built on the basketball court. The old saying is true - "You won't remember all the games, but you'll never forget your teammates." Bonds are built as you strive to win. People are impacted when you play together. It's vital to remember that the things we say and do are impacting others.<br />
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Following the game, my almost 13 year old daughter, Jaylyn had the chance to meet up with her coach from summer camp. She's been looking forward to this for days and enjoyed every minute she spent with Maddie. This reminds me of the importance of role models. At camp, Jaylyn learned skills for the game and today in our conversation with Maddie she heard about life and saw an example of a young woman she can someday be...maybe on the court, but more importantly off of it.<br />
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Finally, basketball is something God can use. Driving down today I had a flashback to June when Jaylyn first met Maddie. God clearly connected them that day and blessed Jaylyn immensely through Maddie's enthusiasm for the game and love for the campers. He then kept them connected via social media. Jaylyn even asked her to pray for me last fall when I was in the ER and this winter we've been praying for her as she's dealt with migraines. And today He blessed us as we shared time together following the Cyclones win.<br />
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Our visit brought back memories of conversations I had in the bleachers when I was 20 as well. Back then I wasn't yet a born again believer, but God used the game to connect my heart with a mentor who pointed me to Him. Basketball was just a tool God used to draw me to Christ.<br />
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Basketball truly is more than a game. It creates joy, connects people and is part of God's plan. But friend, that's not just true for basketball. It's true for your hobby too! And not just your hobby, but your job as well. What you do is important!<br />
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Today was an early birthday celebration for my girl, but also served as a wonderful midseason perspective check for me. In the day to day grind it can be easy to go through the motions and focus on the work, but may we remember more important than the what is the who and why. Going forward may we truly see the people on our path, intentionally pour into them and purposely trust the One who is leading us and we are praying to.<br />
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Friend, I hope this look at basketball being more than a game has encouraged you! I pray we're all reminded to live out Colossians 3:17 - <i>"<span style="background-color: white; color: #001320; font-family: Roboto, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."</span></i>Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-71706992493415072562019-12-29T16:52:00.001-06:002019-12-29T16:52:32.938-06:00Joy and Grace - A ConnectionToday, December 29th is my oldest daughter, Joy's 15th birthday. As I reflect on her life, this post came back to mind. It was good to revisit, I pray it is a blessing for you as well. <div>
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From December 29, 2015 -</div>
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December 29th...an important day in our house - the birthday of our oldest daughter. Today we celebrate Joy's 11th birthday...my little girl is growing up. Though this is a day of joy and celebration it is also a day that marks another anniversary. On July 29th, our niece, Grace was killed in an accident, so today we've been grieving her loss for 5 months.<br />
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I'm grateful God has blessed Joy with another year of life, but we still don't understand why it seems Grace's life was cut short. I know Scripture tells us God knows the number of our days (Psalm 139:16) and I believe that to be true, but in the grieving process we do wonder why. I trust that's why Scripture also tells us to lean not on our own understanding, but to trust God with all of our heart. (Proverbs 3:5)<br />
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It's obvious there are many things in this life we don't and won't understand, but as I think about Joy and Grace today I'm reminded of something I've been learning.<br />
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The night of Grace's funeral I remember Joy saying to me, "Mom, Grace was like a big sister I never had. I want to play basketball like her. I want to love people like she did. I want to tell them about Jesus like she did."<br />
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Death is hard...grieving is a process. And when you're a mom something is added to this - pain for your personal loss and hurt for your kids as they grieve. Joy was 10 and Grace 20 at the time of her accident and Joy did look up to her, enjoyed being with her and liked laughing with her. Grace was a role model, who took the job seriously and included little people in her life. She shared grace and brought joy.<br />
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Awhile back as our pastor preached from Philippians, he made this statement, "Joy and Grace aren't cousins. Joy is a sister to grace." He was not talking about two people in my life, but about things you and I both need.<br />
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He came to this conclusion by studying the words in original language. In the Greek, the word for grace is "charis" which means grace, favor and kindness. In the same language, we see the word for joy is "chara", which means joy or gladness.<br />
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I'm no scholar, but I've dug into this a bit deeper...do you see how similar these two words are in the old, original language? There is a connection between the two and it's more than a base word or similar spelling. One commentator kept it pretty simple - joy is grace recognized, while another explained joy is being properly aware of God's grace. Ultimately they both come from Him.<br />
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Friend, I know death can diminish our joy and Satan will try to steal it, but when we remember God's grace nothing can destroy it. This isn't some superficial, happy all the time joy, but a fruit of the spirit. A joy the world can't offer and doesn't understand. A joy that still sheds tears and experiences all kind of emotions. A joy that comes from the Lord because of God's grace.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OKQbStP5qkI/VoG3Mwmf75I/AAAAAAAABMc/i4a11wm86qs/s1600/IMG_2140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OKQbStP5qkI/VoG3Mwmf75I/AAAAAAAABMc/i4a11wm86qs/s320/IMG_2140.JPG" width="240" /></a>Today, on the 29th of December, I remember Grace with Joy. She's a girl we all loved and now miss. We remember gifts she gave and things she said. Joy dreams of doing things she did and living a legacy like hers too. I also remember Grace with joy. Because of God's grace, our Grace is with Him today and one day we'll all celebrate together again.<br />
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Until then, I pray God will continue to pour out His grace on us. As we receive it, experience it and share it, I hope we will be filled with joy because of it. Today, we'll celebrate Joy and remember Grace, but I pray all of us embrace God's grace and experience His joy!<br />
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"<i>So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy</i>." (Jesus' words in John 16:22)<br />
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"<i>Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.</i>" (James 1:2-3)<br />
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"<i>May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit</i>." (Romans 15:13)<br />
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Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-39505250020491881692019-12-01T19:05:00.000-06:002019-12-01T19:05:37.497-06:00Afraid of NothingAre you ever afraid? Me too. Do you ever wish you could agree with the title of this post and honestly say, "I'm afraid of nothing"? I'm here to share it is possible. I recently learned this, but just this weekend needed the reminder. So, in case you do as well, I'm here to share another story and more importantly a lesson.<br />
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I have been afraid of birds for as long as I can remember. I'm not exactly sure when or why the fear began, but I know the fear is real. Sparrows, chickens, it doesn't matter which one, all flying, feathered creatures tend to freak me out. So, needless to say a few weeks ago when my son needed to deliver his turkeys to the butcher, I wasn't the first to volunteer.<br />
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Well, life unfolded and I was given the job. And a crazy job it was...you see, because of details you don't need to know and I don't have time to share, we transported them not in our typical farm trailer, but in my oldest son's old minivan. So this bird fearing lady made a 45 minute drive with my two young sons and 14 fully grown monsters, I mean turkeys. My ten year old turkey farmer sat behind me amongst his feathered friends. It took all the courage I had to sit down with just a big piece of cardboard between me and my fear, but I did it and my little guys loved every minute of it.<br />
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A few miles down the road, the cardboard started to move. My scream was followed by my boys' laughs. I could see the turkeys flapping their big wings in my rearview mirror as Jed informed me one was sitting on his lap. My heart was racing and my muscles were tight. I simply focused on driving, wanting the trip to end.<br />
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About half way there, Jesse says to me, "Look mom, you're afraid of nothing. You're just singing your favorite song." His words had my attention. He was right - in that moment I had peace. Ryan Stevenson's, "Eye of the Storm" was on the radio and I was singing along. More importantly my focus had changed...it was no longer on my fear, but the object of my faith. I was singing about the One who remains in control and guards my soul. God is my anchor. He loves me, protects me and has a plan for me. Like Ryan sings, "I find my peace in Jesus' name."<br />
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I was so grateful for my little man's observation. I pray it impacts his faith and I know it has strengthened mine. The song had come to an end, but God had my attention. He clearly taught me a lesson and reminded me of an important truth.<br />
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Colossians 3:2 says, "<i>Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things.</i>"<br />
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Hebrews 12:2s tells us to, "<i>fix our eyes on Jesus</i>" while Isaiah 26:3 says, "Y<i>ou (God) will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you</i>."<br />
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Clearly, God's Word tells us who and what should be the focus of our thoughts. When we live this out, even in the midst of our fears, we have peace.<br />
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As I shifted my focus from the ones with feathers I feared to the all powerful God in whom I have faith, my whole attitude changed. Truths about my heavenly Father came to mind, His Spirit filled me and another verse brought perspective. Hebrews 13:6 spoke to my heart - "<i>The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me</i>?" Surely, God can protect me from turkeys as well!!<br />
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I can't say that I'll volunteer for this job again, but the last half of our journey was more enjoyable that the first. I relaxed and appreciated a unique experience with my little boys. I'm pretty sure I'll always remember Jed saying, "Mom, it would be funny if you got stopped by a cop for having too many passengers!!"<br />
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Now after sharing the story, I hope I don't forget the truth Jesse helped me see. And friend, I pray the same is true for you. I've wrestled with some parenting fears this weekend and have some health ones as well, but no matter what the storm or fear we face I know God can and will be our anchor. The question is - will we focus on Him or our fear?<br />
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<br />Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-4564107289502543812019-09-29T20:29:00.000-05:002019-09-29T20:29:19.360-05:00The Power of WorshipWelcome friends! If you read <a href="https://titus24u.blogspot.com/2019/09/the-god-i-know.html" target="_blank">my last post</a> you know I've been dealing with some health issues. I'm grateful for the messages of encouragement and the prayers you've prayed. I am feeling better and we are currently waiting for an appointment with a neurologist. So for now I still rest a lot while we wait for answers and the next step. Today, I was able to leave the house for the first time in two weeks for a place other than the ER or a Dr.'s office. I went to church and it was the place I needed to be.<br />
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The message was powerful and truths were shared that went to my heart. I was convicted and encouraged all at the same time. Our pastor spoke on holiness, which is a chapter in my Bible study book. God brought much to mind from the study I had done and reminded me of the importance of spending time studying His Word.<br />
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Before we even made it to the sermon though, the Holy Spirit was at work. He brought strength to one who was weak and joy to one whose heart has been hurting. I don't know where life has you, but I'm going to share the songs we sang and just a bit about how they spoke to me. I encourage you to take some time and listen to the words as you worship our Lord. This is one of the things God created us to do; clearly it glorifies Him, but it also impacts us. Worship reminds us who God is and shifts our focus from self to the Almighty.<br />
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We began our time together with Brian Doerksen's "The River." Tears filled my eyes not long into this one. The words -<br />
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To surrender every care</div>
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Take my hand now, lead me closer</div>
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Lord, I need to meet you there.</div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Next up was "Blessed Be Your Name" by Matt Redman - one of my all time favorites with many memories tied to it. When it first came out our oldest was just a little guy. Whenever it came on he'd say, "It's our song mom, let's sing it!!" We couldn't sing, but we did it anyway! It was the song God put on my heart the day we found out we were expecting our 3rd child and found out a dear friend lost her dad - God truly does give and take away. A few years later it was a song, and Truth, I clung to as we walked through a miscarriage. It's one that has come to mind as I walk through the unknown.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Today our pastor introduced the song with Job 1:21 - "<i>And he said, 'Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked shall I return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD." </i>In a way I feel like the last 2 weeks have been taken away; I've missed more of our kids' events in 14 days than I probably have in 10 years. For 8 days, I barely left my bed. Things were taken away, but yet in it all God was still giving. What He gave didn't necessarily replace what it felt I lost, but He gave us meals and help, He provided time for me to be still and know Him. I blessed His name today and it was good. Do you feel something has been taken away? Like Job are you facing the unthinkable? Like Job will you bless the name of the Lord? I pray you will friend. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">Our 3rd song was another special one from the past - "The Family Prayer Song - As For Me and My House." Eighteen years ago it's one we had sung at our wedding and believe it or not our wedding has come to mind a few times these past couple of weeks. More specifically our vows...I'm so grateful Job is a man of his word. He is sticking with me in sickness. Back then I didn't expect to one day have 5 children, but the words are true - we need each other. My crew is standing strong and helping out as well. We often think of serving the Lord as outside work, but it starts in our home. I'm so grateful we are committed to doing that and am thankful for the perspective check of where the important kingdom work must begin. Have you chose to serve the Lord? Will you do it where you are? </span><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The final song is a newer one, but speaks of a powerful age old Truth - CityAlight's "Only a Holy God." No matter how our life looks, what season we're walking through or what trial tempts to overtake it's important to remember who God is - a holy God. As we set our mind and fix our eyes on Him our focus shifts, our perspective changes and we remember Truth. It's a reality life is hard. Pain hurts. Life isn't not always fun, or easy. But God. God doesn't change. He is forever holy. He is always good. Forever Faithful. Powerful. He is my rescuer, my redeemer and my Father. Is He yours? </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Friend, I hope I'm not painting a fake rosy picture because trust me...my mind still drifts. We're still living with many unknowns. I want to know what happened in my body, but there's even fear in that. And lots of what if's too. I don't know if the future I had planned will come to fruition. In all honesty, that was true before this health scare, but the past weeks have opened my eyes. Which really is why I write. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm still here and my greatest purpose is to share the faith I know will save me when I no longer am. I know God and have accepted His Son...this Truth brought peace in the moments when my pain led my baby boy to ask, "Mom, are you dying?" We honestly didn't know, but thankfully we know the One who can save us. The One who can heal us. The One who is providing for us. The One who is our peace, our provider and our joy. The One we will worship. Do you? </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the power of worship. Help us make it a part of our daily life. May we always lift your name on high. Help us surrender our cares. May we bless your name, when you give and when you take away. May we choose to serve you and may we know you, our Holy God and good Father more and more. Help us do what you created us to do no matter how our life looks. Thank you for being all we need. Meet each of us right where we are. In Jesus' Name, Amen. </span></i></span></div>
</span>Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-42464052442348201302019-09-23T19:20:00.000-05:002019-09-23T19:29:00.281-05:00The God I Know<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Writing has always played a part in my life...a way God works in my heart as I put words on paper. The messages I share always go to my heart before they show up on your screen. As I write about the Truth, God inscribes it on my heart, which is why I'm here now.<br />
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This past week has been a bit different on the Beran family farm. Here's the update I shared last Thursday via Facebook -<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px;">An update on the week-</span><br />
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Sun night I had a headache...not alarming.<br />
Mon I realized it wasn't a typical migraine.<br />
An early Tues morning trip to the ER brought a little relief.<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; font-family: inherit;"><br />A full Weds in the hospital brought some answers. Bloodwork and CT Scan ruled some things out, but a spinal tap brought some direction. They believe I'm experiencing a positional headache because of/with low pressure and a spontaneous spinal fluid leak. I came home with meds and am on strict bed rest. With follow up appointments coming. We're grateful for what we know and I'm thankful the pain is less.</span></div>
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I've had lots of time to think...believe me it hasn't all been good. I've worried and faced fears. I've felt like a failure and battled some guilt. (Anyone going to the Riceville game tomorrow, cheer a little extra for me please.)</div>
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I also know God is teaching and reminding me of Truth. A few lessons-</div>
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He doesn't change, even if my life does.<br />
He doesn't move, even when my mind drifts.<br />
He's given insight into each of our kids and the special way they care and serve.<br />
He's reminded me of the blessing of a husband who is faithful, loving and selfless and also points me to the Truth and helps keep perspective.<br />
Plus given me friends and family who are concerned and care from near and far.</div>
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No matter what life brings...pause for a moment and acknowledge our great God.</div>
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Thanks again for the prayers. They are felt and needed. If you have a request, share it please - that's something I can still do!!</div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Back to today - my days of strict bed rest and pain medicine have come to an end. I'm able to sit up for awhile without pain, but yet there are questions without answers and life is still quite different. As I rest and reflect, pause and pray I'm faced with a choice. Do I fear the future or trust the Lord? Do I waste my time or treasure this season? Do I worry about what if or cling to God's unchanging promises? Do I isolate myself or ask for help? Do I put on a mask and pretend all is well or be real and admit this is kind of hard? Do I say I know God or get to know Him more?</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My computer time is limited so I'll wrap this up. First of all in all honesty, I don't always choose well. But more importantly, the God I know is drawing me close. He is working. He is reminding. I hope He is healing. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As I watch others do the things I typically do, I'm reminded I'm not in control. God is. When life is good, it's easy to say God is my strength. When all is well, it's simple to say He is my joy. But friend, when trials come and the future is unknown we get a better view of who God is. May this song remind you He is God of EVERYTHING. </span></div>
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Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-31828708321021836382019-09-12T01:30:00.000-05:002019-09-12T01:30:06.059-05:00Willing to be a Walk-On<br />
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Well, our focus on HUMILITY is coming to an end and as we wrap this up, I pray this post serves as a bit of a pep talk for you! These words from nearly 3 years ago hold Truth that can transform. As I continue to be involved in athletics, I see the utter importance and great need for humility. Friend, this isn't just true in the games we play, but it's essential in the life we live! May we each humble our hearts today!<br />
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You could say it was the weekend of the walk-on here in Iowa. Friday night my girls and I traveled to Ames to watch the ISU Cyclones; the teams did not disappoint. It was my basketball loving girls first time in a big arena so watching them was about as much fun as watching the games. Their eyes got big and their dreams grew bigger. We had much to talk about, but today I want to share one thought that went a bit deeper. </div>
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Have you ever thought much about walk-ons? If you're not a sports fan, your answer will be a quick "no". And even if you enjoy the game, walk-ons probably don't have much of your attention, but this weekend my girls and I spent time talking about this important role and I've spent even more time thinking about it. I pray you will do the same, but first I want to ask you a question - "Are you willing to be a walk-on?" </div>
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As you think about this question, let me share a few more thoughts...</div>
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Like I told my girls, a walk-on has an important role. It's said that a team is only as strong as it's weakest player. A walk-on may not get much time on the floor when the lights are on and stands are full, but they are vital when it comes to practice. They help the starters get better. Though people don't know or flock to these players like they do the All-Americans or even know their name like some of the starters and key reserves, they still have skills. Walking on is not something just anybody can do...in a way coaches choose these players too. </div>
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My daughters understood this, but their little competitive selves struggled with the idea of sitting on the bench. They are only in 4th and 6th grade but already love to play the game and had a hard time imagining doing all that work, going to all the practices and just sitting on the bench. After hearing their thoughts, I reminded them of the importance of teamwork and the fact that playing basketball has to be about something bigger than themselves. Walk-ons are truly athletes who love the game, have the desire to be part of a program and are often humble. They are willing to give up the glory and must make a financial sacrifice to follow a dream.</div>
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This conversation continued and went deeper as we talked about being a walk-on for a team other than the Cyclones. Let me add to the question I asked earlier, "Are you willing to be a walk-on for Christ?" </div>
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Will you lay down your dreams and desires so He can get the glory? Are you willing to work behind the scenes while other brothers and sisters get the spotlight? Will you sacrifice financially and personally to follow where He leads? Are you willing to work hard, put in extra time even if nobody ever knows your name? Will you humble yourself, play your role and trust God's plan? </div>
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Friend, those are all simple questions to state, but can be challenging to really answer honestly. I know my girls aren't the only ones with big dreams and desires...we're all human, our flesh wants to be noticed, some of us are competitive and we want to play. But in all of this we must remember God is good...He is a coach who has chosen us. He doesn't have 5 star recruits and walk-ons, His team consists of sons and daughters. He knows our name, our role and our potential. Trust Him, "play" for Him. </div>
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A few thoughts from His Word to support this thinking - </div>
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"<i>The eye cannot say to the hand, 'I don't need you!' And the head cannot say to the feet, 'I don't need you!' Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it</i>." (1 Corinthians 12:21,27)</div>
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Friend, every member of a basketball team is important regardless of stats and in the same way every member the body of Christ is important regardless of roles. </div>
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"<i>You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit - fruit that will last-so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you."</i> (John 15:16) When it feels like the world forgets us we must remember the bigger picture - God has chosen us!! He has work for us to do and even if it doesn't look like we expected or dreamed about we must give Him our all and our best!!</div>
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"<i>For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted</i>." (Luke 14:11) Like I said it takes humility to be a walk-on. A friend's son is currently experiencing his freshman year as walk-on and I have to guess this is not what his dream looked like as a child - sure he dreamed of being a D1 player, but we don't dream about sitting on the bench. Thankfully as we mature our understanding grows and so does our willingness to accept reality. He is grateful for the role God's given him on this team and I pray we all feel the same as we humble ourselves and embrace our role on God's team. </div>
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A few final encouraging words - these words from God's Word are true. Friday night Stu, the beloved walk-on at Iowa State, enjoyed a few minutes on the court. The crowd cheered when he took the floor and then erupted when he scored. He's put in his time, accepted his role and found some success. Then on Saturday night, another walk-on here in Iowa, was given time in the national light. Keith Duncan, a freshman walk-on kicker for the Hawkeyes, nailed the game winning field goal to knock off the mighty Michigan Wolverines. </div>
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Friend, when you and I humble ourselves for our Father in Heaven He will give us more than success on the basketball court or football field. He will bless our obedience and give us eternal rewards. And like all walk-ons know more importantly than individual success, God will get the glory and His kingdom will grow!!!</div>
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<i>Dear Heavenly Father, </i></div>
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<i>Lord, thank you for the opportunity to be on your team. Help each and everyone of us embrace the role you give to us. Help us die to self so that we can live for you. May we surrender our dreams and pursue your plans. Transform our thinking and renew our minds. Equip us to live for you and you alone. Lord, humble our hearts and let your perfect plan unfold. May we always remember the privilege it is to be used by you. In Jesus' Name, Amen</i></div>
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Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-19650846575517862862019-09-11T01:30:00.000-05:002019-09-11T01:30:02.371-05:00Word of the Week - Humility<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;">Our look at humility continues! I pray you think this is a good thing! May these words about our word for the week speak to your heart and encourage you to do what God is calling you to! </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;">From March 11, 2014 -</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;">Nearly 10 days ago, one of the key words I wrote down as I took notes at church was humility. This is a concept that is connected to faith quite often, but that day I didn't reflect on it too much. Then two days later I found myself struggling with insecurity...doubting my voice mattered and thinking my role wasn't that important. I knew this thinking was wrong, so in attempt to correct my thoughts I pulled out my Bible and journal. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;">I came across the word - HUMILITY and was reminded this type of thinking was not humility. There was a time in my life when I considered my insecurity a form of humility, but I've learned that is not the case. Friend, we can be prideful in a quiet, dangerous way. Insecurity is a form of selfishness and that is never a type of humility!</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;">So in that moment, I was reminded to let go of my insecurities and tune out the lies I was listening to so that I could humble myself before God. As I did this, He led me to believe His thoughts more than my own. He reminded me I was created for a purpose, I have a voice that matters and He was in control. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;">Then He lead me into a situation I never expected and had left me anxious, but as I surrendered my will and trusted His plan (and listened to my husband's encouraging words) He filled me with peace. I was in a place where I couldn't do it, but looking back I know that is exactly where I needed to be because then God can!!</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;">God did what He needed to do and showed me this "situation" was about so much more than it outwardly seemed...I trust God spoke through me, but more than that He spoke to me. He showed me I still struggle with insecurity and truly living as the one He created me to be. For the last 5 years, He's led me on a journey to discover who I am and has put it on my heart to share the story.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;">I have a book proposal, two notebooks full of scripture and stories, but I also have a heart overflowing with doubts. I've told myself, "There are plenty of books on this topic...mine isn't needed. I don't have time. I don't have the skill. I don't have the platform." The reasons are endless and they do explain why I haven't written, but as I humbly sat with this before God I was reminded they don't excuse my disobedience.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;">If I want to live as a humble servant of Christ, I need to do what He asks. Even when it doesn't make sense. Even when nobody else knows. Even when it seems impossible. Friend, humility is at the core of Christianity and it is essential if we want to live in obedience. Not just when it comes to writing a book or Bible study, but especially as we live our lives!!</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;">The day following this heart to heart with God I received a new book and I did what I always do...read the acknowledgements and then turn to the last few pages. On the final page I read this, "Jill, humble yourself so that..." and the tears started to fall. The word I'd scribbled on my sermon outline was now cemented on my heart. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;">A new entry was made in my journal and God kept speaking to my heart through His Word. Perhaps He has something to say to you -</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="line-height: 17.94px;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"></span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text Phil-2-3" id="en-NIV-29395">Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit.<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29395F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></span> Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,</span><span class="text Phil-2-3"><b> </b></span><span class="text Phil-2-4" id="en-NIV-29396">not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Philippians 2:3-4</span></span></i><br />
<span class="text Phil-2-4" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"></span><span class="text Phil-2-4" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Luke 14:11</span></i></span><br />
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<i><span class="text 1Pet-5-5" id="en-NIV-30471">In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-30471L" title="See cross-reference L">L</a>)"></span> to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-30471M" title="See cross-reference M">M</a>)"></span> toward one another, because,</span>“God opposes the proud, but shows favor to the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5-6</i></div>
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<span class="text 1Pet-5-6" id="en-NIV-30472"><i>Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 1 Peter 5:6</i></span></div>
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<i>Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29275D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></span> in love. Ephesians 4:2</i></div>
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Friend, I'm not sure if <i>HUMILITY </i>needs to be your word this week, but let me encourage you to consider thinking about it. Insert your name in this blank "_____________, humble yourself so that..." Pray about this and God will give you plenty of opportunities to live it out!! And if you've mastered this, I invite you to pray for me!! Thank you friend! It's a joy to humbly walk through life with you!!</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 17.94px;">"If you are humble, nothing will touch you, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 17.94px;">neither praise nor disgrace, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 17.94px;">because you know what you are." </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 17.94px;">Mother Teresa" </span></div>
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Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-24693863108278909252019-09-09T16:46:00.002-05:002019-09-09T16:46:52.893-05:00A Lesson in Humility<br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.85px;">Hello friends! Last week I shared a post and devotional about humility and it got me thinking. This is a topic I've studied before, but it seemed it was one God wanted me to revisit, so I did. For the next three days, I'll be sharing a bit more about the topic. I invite you to join me! I pray God uses my stories and teachings to draw you into His Word!!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.85px;"> From </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">November 4, 2015 -</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">This picture is not real clear because it's a picture I didn't want to take. Actually I didn't take it, because it's a vision of something I'd like to forget, but my husband did capture the moment on his old cell phone and for the sake of this post, I'll share it with you.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Last week, I offered to go with my husband as he took wagons from our farm to another field. Once we arrived he decided to fill the wagons and we enjoyed a little uninterrupted conversation in the combine. All was going well. Then he suggested I drive the tractor while he combined so we could unload on the go. We were finishing up and he told me to pull the wagons on the road and pick him up on the other end of the field. Sounded simple enough.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">I turned out of the field onto the end rows, glanced back and saw the tire crack off. It seemed to happen in slow motion, but there was nothing I could do as I next watched the wagon tip and bushel upon bushel of corn flow out. I was sick. My husband was heading the opposite way, so he saw nothing. I didn't have my phone so I couldn't call him. So what did I do? Sat there and cried for awhile.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">I felt terrible. I'd made a huge mess. I glanced out the tractor cab and saw dollars on the ground instead of corn. Eventually, I saw Job start making his way towards me. I got out of the tractor and saw everything up close and started to cry again. I walked to him sobbing and shaking.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">"Just relax. It's going to be OK," were his first words to me. He assured me it wasn't something I had done and was a mishap he'd actually experienced before. At this point, the rain started to fall and his brother was on his way with the skidloader, our kids and shovels.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">We jumped in the combine and my stomach continued to churn as I remembered I was supposed to lead Titus24U that evening and share about humility. I told Job, "I'm going to call Jackie and tell her I can't do it." He assured me it would be fine and that I would be going.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Once we met up with the clean-up crew I felt terrible all over again. Here I'd made the mess, but they were sending me home to lead Bible study while they would get soaked scooping up grain. My little Jaylyn saw the distressed look on my face and reminded me, "Mommy, it's not your fault."</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">As I headed home much went through my mind..."Sometimes God humbles us in our humility." "It takes humility to receive grace." And "If we want our kids to be humble, we'd better live out humility." Friend, we do need to humble ourselves in order to die to self and obey God.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">I'd been knee deep in study of this topic that is broad and deep and He used this experience to continue the lesson. Friend, let me ask you - what is humility? What does a humble person look like? I think we can all give general answers and examples, but Biblically this is a big, important topic that can be somewhat hard to understand.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Prior to my study, I would have said humility is the opposite of pride. It's NOT that cocky NFL player who is all about me. This is true, but there is so much more. Andrew Murray said, "Pride is the lack of humility," which I thought was an interesting perspective. Especially when I connect it with a Susie Larson quote - "Insecurity is a form of selfishness, which is pride."</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Now for someone who's battled insecurity for most of my life this quote hit home. For years, I at times labeled my insecurity - my shyness, my lack of confidence, my fear of speaking up, my worry about what others thought, as humility. And friend, that is SO wrong.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Humility is all about God, not me. Humility is an emptying of self. Being humble requires confidence, in Christ. Humble people focus on God, not self. When we're humble we acknowledge God as Creator and remember we are simply His creation. In Greek, humility means to submit self, a meek, gentle and lowly state.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Humility is needed to learn and teach, lead and follow, give and receive, help and be helped, share and listen, receive criticism and rightly confront, serve and be served, ask and offer. Humility is necessary if we want to be like Jesus...the one who was HUMBLE.</span><br />
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<i>In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: </i></div>
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<i>who being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God </i></div>
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<i>something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing </i></div>
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<i>by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. </i></div>
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<i>And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself </i></div>
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<i>by becoming obedient to death - even death on a cross!" </i></div>
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<i>Philippians 2:5-8</i></div>
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Friend, there is so much more I could say, but I believe it will mean more if God is the one talking, so I'm going to do something a bit different and leave you with some homework. Everytime I sat down to search the Scriptures and dig into God's Word on this topic, He spoke to my heart...and convicted it too. That's not necessarily an easy thing, but let me assure you it is a good thing. </div>
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If you're up for the challenge, here's some notes from our local Titus24U gathering that will get you started. I encourage you to humble yourself and ask God to teach you and transform you! I pray your lesson won't include a mess like the one I described above!! Feel free to print this out. I'd love to hear what God teaches you, so be sure to comment. I believe this lesson in humility will last a lifetime, so if we can learn from each other, we perhaps can avoid some humiliation and grow in our humility!</div>
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<u>A Short Study on Humility</u></div>
<u style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Words From Others</u><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">“Humility isn’t thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.” </i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">C.S. Lewis</span><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">“Humility is the proper estimate of one’s self.” </i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Charles Spurgeon</span><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">“The level of our faith matches the depth of our humility.”</i><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">“Lack of humility often is the cause of much of our difficulty.”</i><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">“Pride is refusing to accept God’s gifts or taking credit for what God has done; Humility is accepting the gifts and using them to praise and serve God.”</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"> (Bible notes - Luke 1:48)</span><br />
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<u style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Words from God</u><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">As you read these Scriptures think about these questions - "What do they tell you about humility? Where does humility come from? What does it lead to? Is it necessary for a believer? Why?"</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Proverbs 3:34, 11:2, 13:10 29:23</span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Jeremiah 6:16-19</span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Psalms 25:9</span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Isaiah 57:15</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Philippians 2:3-11</span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">1 Peter 5:5-6</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Colossians 2:18-23, 3:12</span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Ephesians 4:1-2</span><br />
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<u style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Examples of Humility</u><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">As you read of these influential people, take note of the role humility played in their life.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Abraham - Genesis 18:27-32</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Jacob - Genesis 32:10</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Moses - Ex. 3:11</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Joshua - Joshua 7:6</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Job - Job 42:2-6</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Elizabeth - Luke 1:43</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Jesus - Matthew 11:29</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Paul - Acts 20:19</span><br />
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<u style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Humility Homework</u><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Define humility -</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Describe a humble person -</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Think about your roles - What does humility look like in each of them?</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Humility is a matter of heart…take some time and examine yours -</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Am I humble?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Do I serve with joy?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Do I compare myself with others?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Am I jealous? Do I envy?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Do I strive for praise? Long for approval?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Do I react wrongly when others are praised?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Do I forgive? Do I accept forgiveness?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Do I judge?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Am I humble in seemingly insignificant daily tasks?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Do I desire to be more humble?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">How can I grow in humility?</span><br />
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<u style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Write a Prayer for Humility</u><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"> (Verses to consider- Ps. 26:2, 51:10, Jer. 18:6, Is. 66:2, 1 Peter 3:3-4)</span>Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7743538212105747897.post-45910049924753569062019-09-06T06:55:00.000-05:002019-09-06T06:55:18.238-05:00Is it HUMILITY? <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Welcome to those of you joining me from </span><a href="http://www.encouragementcafe.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #006677; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">The Encouragement Cafe</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"> where I am again sharing about humility. If you'd like to read my devotion titled, "What is that?" click </span><a href="https://www.encouragementcafe.com/post/what-is-that-2?fbclid=IwAR2Mes_9gntpOBTiuBHyDyV7ZIFJalNbHgdBaABcrTrHiWiSCPwum0VlyTA" target="_blank">HERE</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">.</span><br />
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This piece from the past was timely for me once again, so I dug a bit deeper and found a few more on humility. If it's a topic you'd like to learn more about I invite you to read my next few posts from the past - <br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">As I wrote, we must understand humility if we are going to live humbly. Though I wrote the words in the devotional months ago, God recently taught me a lesson about this...last weekend to be exact.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">My husband, Job, is an elder at our small county church, which means once every few months he is in charge of setting up communion. This role means I am responsible for making a loaf of bread...something that is NOT a gift of mine.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">By Saturday afternoon, I had successfully made two loaves of bread...the kids were thrilled to enjoy one for supper and I did what every mom of hungry kids would do with the other - hide it! Time came for baths and the bedtime routine, so I set the bread out on the counter knowing it'd be easy for Job to find when he left to set up.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">With baths over I dressed Jesse, my 3 year old, and sent him off; then I did the same with Jed, my 5 year old. As I finished cleaning up I heard Jed, "Mom, come quick, Jesse eatin bread!!!!"</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Instantly, I knew exactly what had happened. I entered the kitchen to find this...</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xAUzayITrnI/VFw2-bNsTFI/AAAAAAAAAyg/DrRN7u5iM8U/s1600/IMG_0690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="color: #006677; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xAUzayITrnI/VFw2-bNsTFI/AAAAAAAAAyg/DrRN7u5iM8U/s1600/IMG_0690.JPG" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="320" /></a></div>
<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">A flood of thoughts entered my mind, but it all came down to, "What are we going to do?" Minutes later Job came in and his first reaction was far different than mine...he laughed, which only added to my frustration. At 8:30 I put the kids to bed and then returned to the kitchen.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Thankfully I had one more loaf of frozen bread dough; I found the directions and moved forward with the fastest baking plan. At 11:30 PM I opened the oven and found what I called, a "Humpty Dumpty" loaf of bread...I don't know what happened, but it looked bad.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Honestly I wanted to cry, but the tears wouldn't fall. I knew there was nothing I could do so I went to bed...a short time later Job came in from a late night in the field. He saw the bread, didn't say a word and then I asked him, "What are we going to do?" He assured me it would be alright.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">I went to sleep asking God to work it out...I wasn't sure how that would happen - I'd already contacted my three bread making friends, we are an hour from the nearest store that would have a loaf of homemade looking bread and church was at 8:30. Yet there was a part of me that knew it would be alright.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">At 4 AM I woke up and knew I was to get up and try again. This time I found a recipe for my bread machine, prayed as I added the ingredients and returned to bed asking God to do it. By 6 I was back up, put the dough in pans and let it rise. During this time, my brother-in-law stopped by and asked for the communion bread...Job had asked him to take it to church. I wrapped up the "Humpty Dumpty" loaf and Satan reminded me I wasn't cut out to be an elder's wife.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Time kept ticking away as I did the dishes, while I stood at the sink I thought about the devotions I was sharing this week - both were on the topic of humility. I specifically got to thinking about what humility really is and more specifically what it should like in the situation I was in. God had me, a recovering people pleaser with a life long approval addiction, on this one. "Why was I making another loaf of bread?" was the question He put on my heart.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">I would like to say it was because communion is important, it's a holy sacrament and something I want to do right to honor God. I also remembered the widow how didn't give much, but gave all she had and wondered if God was telling me my messed up loaf was enough. Friend, those things are all true, but I know I was also worried about what others would think.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">So when my daughter looked at the nice freshly baked loaves of bread and asked, "Which one are you going to take to church?" I simply responded, "I might not take either one." She, the girl who inherited a bit of my addiction, was shocked and asked, "Why?"</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">I told her what God had been showing me about humility and how I really didn't know my answer to His question. Then I explained how our actions might look humble, but if they come from a prideful heart it's not humility at all. She looked at me a bit confused and then left to get ready for church.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">After our conversation, I had peace about the whole situation and was prepared to leave it in my husband's hands...thinking he'd say it wasn't a big deal, nobody would notice and we didn't have time to switch it anyway.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">He came in from chores, entered the kitchen, and called to me in the other room, "Why don't you run this loaf down to the church right now." I didn't ask any questions and then did what he said...I knew submitting to my husband was the humble thing to do.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Time for church came and after a powerful sermon we took part in the breaking of the bread. As our pastor echoed Jesus' words from the last supper and lifted the loaf of bread...I had peace. I had heard God's voice at 4 AM, followed His directions and made the bread for Him. I gave Him the best of what I had and He was pleased with my perseverance.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">He wants and deserves our best...friends that's not always easy and rarely does it come without trouble, but if we humble ourselves it is possible. When we do this He will bless our obedience and be glorified by our actions.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Friend, I pray you are encouraged to really think about what humility is...may we never forget that it is directly connected to the fear of the Lord. May we move past worrying about what others expect and focus on giving God what He deserves. What does God deserve from you today? Your obedience, your praise, your thankfulness, your heart, your time, your money, your 5th loaf of bread? I don't know, but God does - ask Him and then pray for the humility to make it happen!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">A few more thoughts on humility -</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">"God created the world out of nothing, and as long as we are nothing, He can make something out of us." Martin Luther</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">"Nothing sets a person so much out of the devil's reach as humility." Jonathon Edwards</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">"I used to think that God's gifts were on shelves - one above another - and the taller we grow, the easier we can reach them. Now I find that God's gifts are on shelves - and the lower we stoop, the more we get." F.B. Meyer</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">"</span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">He who humbles himself will be exalted." Luke 14:11</i><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"><br /></i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"></span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">"God...gives grace to the humble...Humble yourselves before the Lord and He will lift you up." James 4:6,10</i><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" /><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"><br /></i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"></span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time." 1 Peter 5:6</i>Jill Beranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15806903883268321231noreply@blogger.com2