Just open your heart and your eyes; God will present you with opportunities to witness...
This weekend I went to Snowshoe, WV for the College Crew Ski Trip. It was an awesome time of cold slopes, fellowship, good food, and awesome devotions. And with no phone service, it was just a great time to focus solely on my Lord. I guess you could say that I opened my eyes...
Saturday night, after I had a great time at dinner with seven of the girls that went, we got back on the shuttle to return to our chalet. I was the first one on the bus and met Howard, our driver, and asked how his night was going. I was expecting no answer, or a short-look, but he just smiled and proceeded to tell me how blessed his night had been. He started in telling us his 5-minute "shuttle testimony" of how God brought him to Snowshoe, to take care of his sick mother. He seemed to have an awesome story and he then told us some amazing God things. He said how God had given him the power of healing and that he prayed over several people, and God made them well. The one that stuck with me the most, was of his aunt who was diagnosed with cancer. He went and laid hands on her and a few weeks later, the cancer was gone. How powerful is our God?! I just couldn't help but smile the whole time he was talking, because I just LOVE running into other Christians who aren't afraid to share their God stories. We arrived at our cabin, and everyone got of the shuttle, thanking him for his testimony and wishing him a blessed night. I was the last one off, and went I went to tell him good-night, he grabbed my hand and asked to pray for me. (I'm thinking: Really?! This man I've never met, wants to pray for me?!) I agreed, bowed my head, and opened my heart to his words. Howard prayed for my safety while in Snowshoe, my group's safety, and that the Lord would be with me in whatever He calls me to do. One of the coolest moments of my life, I walked off the bus, almost in tears, knowing that I'd be keeping Howard in my prayers too.
I went inside and told everyone what happened and how cool it was that Howard was witnessing to so many people on his shuttle rides, everyday. What an awesome way to share God's love! And for me to be able to witness what God was doing through Howard, really just made my day. And it was all because I just opened my eyes...
The very next day, while skiiing, Hannah and I were on the ski lift with another lady. Small talk was made, but nothing too heavy. I'm always thinking of ways that I can bring up Jesus in conversation and before I could even began with this lady, she brought up Christmas and the real reason behind the season: JESUS. So neat to just talk about my God with another random person.
Just open your eyes for people to witness too :)
Monday, December 27, 2010
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
The Graham family of Augusta was blessed this past week with a new house from Extreme Makeover: Home Edition! And I was given an amazing opportunity of helping out twice in the past 7 days!
On Sunday night, Lauren Stephens and I went out there around 10 and stayed until about 12. We did a lot of clean up for the house and moving bricks back and forth. We got to carry tiles for the bathroom floors upstairs unto the house and see what it looks like at day 3. It was SO super cold but so neat to see how many people were out there so late, putting in all their effort for a family they might have never even met.
Tuesday night, which was the last night, Jenn Edwards and I went out at 10 and stayed until veryyyyy late (I might as well just say until early Wednesday morning). It was an even better experience, but even colder! We started off just looking for things to do and ended up unloading trucks with Sears appliances and furniture. A lot of the stuff we worked with that night was actually for the Sister-in-law's family, who lived behind the big home. Jenn and I were given the task of putting together a bathroom storage unit that went over the toilet. It took over 3 hours but we finally finished it! We were SO proud.
So today, Wednesday, was the reveal and Jenn, Kendall, and I went up at 1 to see the family come back and be surprised by their brand new house! The reveal was supposed to be at 2...but it didn't happen till after 4. That's Hollywood, I suppose. We got to high-five Ty and see the rest of the Extreme Team crew. Did I mention we were front row? :) But anyway, I have to be honest--it's NOT what I expected at all. The limo came in, and then again, and again. There was like 25 takes of everything that happened. And when the family did finally come, and everyone yelled "move that bus!", I heard that they had already seen it. But they did seem super excited, happy, sad, anxious and everything at the same time. So congratulations to the Graham Family!
Here's a link to the rest of the pictures:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1494666375168&set=a.1494650694776.2067582.1489320099#!/album.php?aid=2067582&id=1489320099&page=3
On Sunday night, Lauren Stephens and I went out there around 10 and stayed until about 12. We did a lot of clean up for the house and moving bricks back and forth. We got to carry tiles for the bathroom floors upstairs unto the house and see what it looks like at day 3. It was SO super cold but so neat to see how many people were out there so late, putting in all their effort for a family they might have never even met.
Tuesday night, which was the last night, Jenn Edwards and I went out at 10 and stayed until veryyyyy late (I might as well just say until early Wednesday morning). It was an even better experience, but even colder! We started off just looking for things to do and ended up unloading trucks with Sears appliances and furniture. A lot of the stuff we worked with that night was actually for the Sister-in-law's family, who lived behind the big home. Jenn and I were given the task of putting together a bathroom storage unit that went over the toilet. It took over 3 hours but we finally finished it! We were SO proud.
Here's a link to the rest of the pictures:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1494666375168&set=a.1494650694776.2067582.1489320099#!/album.php?aid=2067582&id=1489320099&page=3
Friday, December 3, 2010
"Take All of Me"
You have to watch this video. You have to listen to this song. You have to live the words.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
About Me (Who I Am)
Heyyyy, my name is Chelsea Johnson.
Thanks for visiting my blog. This is "about me" is like a year after I've started blogging, but sometimes it takes that long to really "find yourself". And for the past year I have done more soul-searching and God-yearning than I ever have. I've pondered about who I am, where I'm going, and reflected on who I was. It's been a crazy year,with more ups and downs than ever but I've learned more than I ever thought I could and I'm excited to learn more about who I am becoming.
I am a Christian. I am deeply, madly, crazy in love with my Savior, Jesus Christ. I am trying to follow Him, wherever He leads. I am His slave, saved by His grace and living in His mercy.
I am a daughter. My parents divorced when I was young which means I've been blessed with four parents pratically my whole life. I am a big sister and absoutely love it. I have three younger siblings whom I adore. Slayton is 17, Raymond is 13, and Kendall is 10.
I am a friend. I love my friends more than they'd ever realize. I'm so thankful that my close friends are Christians and that they're there for me no matter what. It's a huge blessing to have real people in your life.
I am a missonary. I've been on two foreign mission trips already and absoutely cannot wait for when He sends me again. I'll go anywhere He leads. I live for showing people His salvation and letting Him grow the seed.
Some other things that I've grown quite fond of in my twenty years of life are: photography, music, movies, dancing in the rain, praying, worshipping, going on mission trips, shopping and then giving stuff away, dates with my girls (we always end up at Salsa's), watching 80's movies on double dates with my parents, scrapbooking, traveling, cuddling, going to basketball games, quoting movies with my man, church, speaking to groups, camping, hiking & rafting, staying busy, riding roller-coasters, working and anything else that involves the people I love...
So since I said earlier, this blog is who I am, I'm going to be blogging on who I was and who I am becoming in the future. Look for them...it'll be mighty interesting. :-)
Friday, September 3, 2010
Girl, You've got to STOP.
Okay, so this is a blog post I've been wanting to do for a LONG time. I consulted quite a few women and other girls on it before doing this. A lot say no-and a lot said yes. I'm going with it. God has laid this one big time on my heart.
It's on gossip. I'm so tired of my Christian sisters GOSSIPING! Seriously girl, you've got to stop.
Now I am NOT perfect, in any way, but several months ago, God laid it on my heart to stop gossiping. And I felt VERY convicted from then on, when I said something rude about anyone. I am still praying a lot about this, and working everyday to not gossip (or talk crap). And I feel personally, like I've done an okay job--not perfect--but better than I was. Because I was definitely one of those girls. You know the type, the ones that sit in the corner with their "friends", talking bad about everyone that walks in. (And by the way, if they're talking bad about someone with you, they're talking bad about you with someone else!--a hard lesson learned for me) ALWAYS something NEGATIVE, never any positive. The ones that just stare through you, up and down, everything you're wearing. The ones that have their nose in the air like they're better than you. Yeah, those girls.
But honestly, IT'S NOT THAT HARD TO STOP. You just have to PRAY.
"God give me a loving heart. Help me to not see people's faults, but to work on my own. Show me everyone's inner and outer beauty, and help me to compliment them, lifting them up, instead of bringing them down. Lord, let me love like You."
Now I've always heard that when you're praying not to do something, or to better anything about you, the devil will always test you in that way. And boy, did he try to get me. A few weeks after God had showed me just how evil it is to gossip I was confronted with just that. I went to a dinner party with some fellow Christian ladies. And what was EVERYONE doing?! GOSSIPING!! The whole entire time. (There was one girl, other than myself, who did not participate). It was seriously ridiculous. It was almost like a contest--who could come up with the worst things to say about everyone else. It actually made me sick to my stomach. I remember driving home that night, calling Will and him saying "Oh, that just girl's. Girls can be rude." But these are CHRISTIAN GIRLS, I thought to myself. Why were they acting like this?! Why did I used to act like this?! This is disgusting. I actually went home that night and practically cried to my parents from being so upset. I guess I hadn't hung out with that many girls in awhile and didn't realize how EVIL they were. OR maybe it was because my true friends, ladies really trying to live with the love of Christ, didn't do that. What a wake-up call! That night put a lot of things in to perspective to me and was a HUGE lesson from God. Yet again, showing me how NASTY GOSSIPING IS and how much better I could show love, if I just didn't talk crap. I tell you what, I think twice before saying something nasty about anyone from now on.
Now again, I am going to restate that I am not perfect-at all. And I'm no better than anyone who does gossip. I'm just saying that God has told me how bad, evil, nasty, ugly, disgusting gossip is and I am trying to tell others about it. I really hope this can be a wake-up call for some girl/lady out there. I really hope that you realize what you're doing, how you're hurting your Christian witness, and seriously check yourself. Because, Girl, You've got to STOP.
"Besides that, they learn to be idle, gaddling about from every house to house; and they are not merely idle, but also GOSSIPS and busybodies, saying what they should not say." 1 Timothy 5:13
"They were filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, covetousness, malice. Full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, craftiness, they are GOSSIPS, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, rebellious towards parents, foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless." Romans 1:29-31
It's on gossip. I'm so tired of my Christian sisters GOSSIPING! Seriously girl, you've got to stop.
Now I am NOT perfect, in any way, but several months ago, God laid it on my heart to stop gossiping. And I felt VERY convicted from then on, when I said something rude about anyone. I am still praying a lot about this, and working everyday to not gossip (or talk crap). And I feel personally, like I've done an okay job--not perfect--but better than I was. Because I was definitely one of those girls. You know the type, the ones that sit in the corner with their "friends", talking bad about everyone that walks in. (And by the way, if they're talking bad about someone with you, they're talking bad about you with someone else!--a hard lesson learned for me) ALWAYS something NEGATIVE, never any positive. The ones that just stare through you, up and down, everything you're wearing. The ones that have their nose in the air like they're better than you. Yeah, those girls.
But honestly, IT'S NOT THAT HARD TO STOP. You just have to PRAY.
"God give me a loving heart. Help me to not see people's faults, but to work on my own. Show me everyone's inner and outer beauty, and help me to compliment them, lifting them up, instead of bringing them down. Lord, let me love like You."
Now I've always heard that when you're praying not to do something, or to better anything about you, the devil will always test you in that way. And boy, did he try to get me. A few weeks after God had showed me just how evil it is to gossip I was confronted with just that. I went to a dinner party with some fellow Christian ladies. And what was EVERYONE doing?! GOSSIPING!! The whole entire time. (There was one girl, other than myself, who did not participate). It was seriously ridiculous. It was almost like a contest--who could come up with the worst things to say about everyone else. It actually made me sick to my stomach. I remember driving home that night, calling Will and him saying "Oh, that just girl's. Girls can be rude." But these are CHRISTIAN GIRLS, I thought to myself. Why were they acting like this?! Why did I used to act like this?! This is disgusting. I actually went home that night and practically cried to my parents from being so upset. I guess I hadn't hung out with that many girls in awhile and didn't realize how EVIL they were. OR maybe it was because my true friends, ladies really trying to live with the love of Christ, didn't do that. What a wake-up call! That night put a lot of things in to perspective to me and was a HUGE lesson from God. Yet again, showing me how NASTY GOSSIPING IS and how much better I could show love, if I just didn't talk crap. I tell you what, I think twice before saying something nasty about anyone from now on.
Now again, I am going to restate that I am not perfect-at all. And I'm no better than anyone who does gossip. I'm just saying that God has told me how bad, evil, nasty, ugly, disgusting gossip is and I am trying to tell others about it. I really hope this can be a wake-up call for some girl/lady out there. I really hope that you realize what you're doing, how you're hurting your Christian witness, and seriously check yourself. Because, Girl, You've got to STOP.
"Besides that, they learn to be idle, gaddling about from every house to house; and they are not merely idle, but also GOSSIPS and busybodies, saying what they should not say." 1 Timothy 5:13
"They were filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, covetousness, malice. Full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, craftiness, they are GOSSIPS, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, rebellious towards parents, foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless." Romans 1:29-31
Friday, August 27, 2010
Blessed--My Happy List :)
Do you ever have those days where you are just on your knees, thanking God for how much He's blessed you? I've been realizing over and over how good He has been to me lately and just so happy for what He's given me. I just wanted to share some of my blessings, happy things, and hope that it encourages you to realize how blessed you are too! If you're ever down, make a list, and realize just how good you have it. He is good!
Why I'm blessed.....
My Great Lord:
--He sent His one, only son--to die for my sins!
--He loves me unconditionally
My amazing family:
--My close family are all Christians which is such a blessing
--My parents have always supported me and been there no matter what
--We love spending time together and always make a point to have family dinners
My beautiful friends:
--They really love the Lord
--My friends don't gossip--they are real, true people
--They have always been there for me, through tears and laughs
My wonderful boyfriend:
--He's in love with the Lord
--He can always make me laugh :)
--He's seriously my best friend
And everything else: (some things, I know we take for granted)
--I'm in college--it's such a privilege!
--Everyday I have clean water, food, and a place to rest my head
--That I can eat more than one meal a day
--I have a job
--I have a great church family--love "the Crew!"
--I live in a free country
--I've been able to see/help people accept Christ
--I've been to third world countries sharing His word
--I've seen miracles
--I have a car to drive everyday
--That I have (way) more than just one pair of clothes--some people only have the clothes on their back
--I've felt the presence of Angels
--I have two arms and two legs
--Because I can support a World Vision child for only $30 a month
I know there's more and I'll eventually add them all. Ever since being to Kenya, I've realized that "simple, small things" really make me the happiest. It should be the same for you. Make yourself a list and stop complaining about silly things.
Why I'm blessed.....
My Great Lord:
--He sent His one, only son--to die for my sins!
--He loves me unconditionally
My amazing family:
--My close family are all Christians which is such a blessing
--My parents have always supported me and been there no matter what
--We love spending time together and always make a point to have family dinners
My beautiful friends:
--They really love the Lord
--My friends don't gossip--they are real, true people
--They have always been there for me, through tears and laughs
My wonderful boyfriend:
--He's in love with the Lord
--He can always make me laugh :)
--He's seriously my best friend
And everything else: (some things, I know we take for granted)
--I'm in college--it's such a privilege!
--Everyday I have clean water, food, and a place to rest my head
--That I can eat more than one meal a day
--I have a job
--I have a great church family--love "the Crew!"
--I live in a free country
--I've been able to see/help people accept Christ
--I've been to third world countries sharing His word
--I've seen miracles
--I have a car to drive everyday
--That I have (way) more than just one pair of clothes--some people only have the clothes on their back
--I've felt the presence of Angels
--I have two arms and two legs
--Because I can support a World Vision child for only $30 a month
I know there's more and I'll eventually add them all. Ever since being to Kenya, I've realized that "simple, small things" really make me the happiest. It should be the same for you. Make yourself a list and stop complaining about silly things.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Something I Needed to Hear Today
Our College Sunday School class at Millbrook is seriously blessed to have our teacher Matt Brackett. And today--he did it. He said something profound, to me, that it just healed my heart to hear. Something I really needed to hear.
"God will use you wherever you're at, whatever you're doing--as long as you have a right relationship with Him."
I struggle with everyday not being on a mission field somewhere in a foreign country and sometimes feel like God is doing nothing through me. This right here, proved me wrong. God is always at work. Thanks Matt :)
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Midnight Redemption
Midnight Redemption is the high school band at my church, Millbrook Baptist. This past Sunday night they had a High School Night of Worship that they organized and put on with little help. It was a beautiful night with tons of high school kids praising our Lord (I think they had around 75!!) Praise the Lord.
Now this night touched my heart a little deeper, maybe than others, because my very own baby brother was in it. Slayton is the acoustic guitar (and even sang a little) and he did so awesome! I have been so proud and so excited watching God transform my brother's life into something so amazing. Slayton has really given everything he has to God and has been searching for his place. He has felt a calling into Music Ministry and is looking to purse it in college, and of course every chance he gets while still in high school. I am just so proud of this boy!So watching him lead this band in front of 75 high school kids, some college and adults, just made my heart so happy. I'm so thankful for such a Godly family.
I am so excited for what God is going to continue to do through this band. Each person in Midnight Redemption is such a beautiful child of God and I'm blessed to have them in my church and life. Keep being such an example to His kingdom and a light for others guys! Love you all!
I am so excited for what God is going to continue to do through this band. Each person in Midnight Redemption is such a beautiful child of God and I'm blessed to have them in my church and life. Keep being such an example to His kingdom and a light for others guys! Love you all!
Lead Singer-Allie Blissit
Acoustic- Slayton Johnson
Lead Guitar- Jevon Garcia
Bass- Justin Leonard
Drums- Brody Harper
Check them out on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=128513700526155&v=info#!/group.php?gid=128513700526155&v=wall
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Encourage Yo Sista 2010
Last night was our 2nd Annual Clothes Swap. The theme of this year was Encourage Yo Sista 2010. Such a great topic, let me tell ya! We had about 30 women in total and 3 beautiful, Christian speakers. We even managed to get the college men to serve our dinner :-) Everyone really did such a great job and it looked so beautiful. Here's a little bit of what was said and done at our Sista dinner...(thanks to Janice Wilson for pictures).
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| These are the awesome guys that served our dinner and deserts! :-) Thank you Bret McIver, Justin Wheelon, Will Howard, Jake Edwards, Brad Temple, and Wesley Ryan! |
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| Jamie Johnson (that was a major part of putting the whole thing together) and Rachel Horne (the college intern) share a special moment. |
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| Jennifer Edwards sang None but Jesus for all the ladies. She did so beautifully! |
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| Mrs Mary Boswell speaking |
Mary Boswell was our first speaker and she shared her awesome testimony. There were parts that made us laugh and others that made us cry...(loved how this is what it was like with each woman that spoke). She talked a lot about marriage. She said to only marry the equally yoked and that to submit and obey your husband is a great think. God made us to be their helpers. I just loved how she put everything into perspective for us at our age.
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| Our second speaker was Mrs Barbara Franklin. |
Barbara Franklin really did an awesome job. She talked a lot about how we can either take the world's path or God's path and how we have to stay in His word everyday. She did a really powerful demonstration also, about spending your morning with Jesus. She put chocolate balls into a jar (which represented time with the Trinity). The rice was then poured in the jar (which represented the rest of your day). Everything fit perfectly and our day was full. Next, she put the rice in first (which represented not spending time with Jesus first thing) and then put the chocolate in last (like how we try to squeeze in our time with Him, when we have time). It didn't fit. The top didn't go on. We have to spend time with Him first thing, to start our day off right and have a good relationship with God.
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| Our third and last speaker was Mrs Eleanor Bookstaver. |
Eleanor Bookstaver really got all the ladies attention. We were either laughing or crying about everything she told us. Something that really caught my attention was that she said the Lord just really wants us to pray to Him. He doesn't care what the prayers are, if there silly, or really important, He just wants your attention."God wants to bother with every part of your life, if it's bothering you." She also said He wants us to go and search those in need and help them.
After we ate and heard these beautiful women, it was time for the swap! Everyone grabbed their bags and began to "shop". It was so nice because no one fought or was catty. Everyone helped each other out and shared what they had, if they saw someone wanted/needed it more.
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| Lindsey Boothe and Graham Dickerson were so ready to go through all those clothes! |
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| Posing for a picture before we all began. (See the cute bags?) :D |
So the night was a success and a time of great fellowship. So thankful for everyone who helped in any way. All the glory be for Him! :-)
Thursday, July 15, 2010
ALL my DELIGHT is in YOU LORD
For the past 7 months of my life, I have been on this crazy spiritual journey with Christ. He has shown me that the only one that matters is HIM. He has taken away and given back more than I could ever imagine. He has blessed me in ways I could never explain. Basically, for the past 7 months I have learned that all my delight comes from my Lord.
I have fallen so in love with God that a lot of times, He's all I can think about. When can I spend another moment with Him? What is He going to teach me today through His word? What does He want me to do for His Kingdom and who should I be praying for to come to know Him?
Jesus is the greatest love that I have ever known. It's really incomprehensible how much HE LOVES US. And all He wants from us is to love Him, love others, and teach them about His love. His love has just been so heavy in my heart lately that I honestly feel like I could literally explode. The miracles He shows me each day; how could I not just absolutely adore Him? He is so good!!
As I sit here, just thinking about what all He has created, I just want to cry. He has made this whole world for us to go out and share His love. Is that what we're doing? Are we truly loving others like He loves us?
I honestly don't think I really loved anyone how He wanted me to until very recently. Because it's been recently that I've seriously just fallen head over heels in love with my Lord. And this is when I started realizing that nothing but Jesus filled me up. No things, no other person gave me as much delight as He did. I truly realized He was all I needed. There is none like Him.
Lord, all my delight is in you...
I have fallen so in love with God that a lot of times, He's all I can think about. When can I spend another moment with Him? What is He going to teach me today through His word? What does He want me to do for His Kingdom and who should I be praying for to come to know Him?
Jesus is the greatest love that I have ever known. It's really incomprehensible how much HE LOVES US. And all He wants from us is to love Him, love others, and teach them about His love. His love has just been so heavy in my heart lately that I honestly feel like I could literally explode. The miracles He shows me each day; how could I not just absolutely adore Him? He is so good!!
As I sit here, just thinking about what all He has created, I just want to cry. He has made this whole world for us to go out and share His love. Is that what we're doing? Are we truly loving others like He loves us?
I honestly don't think I really loved anyone how He wanted me to until very recently. Because it's been recently that I've seriously just fallen head over heels in love with my Lord. And this is when I started realizing that nothing but Jesus filled me up. No things, no other person gave me as much delight as He did. I truly realized He was all I needed. There is none like Him.
Lord, all my delight is in you...
Monday, June 28, 2010
Pray with Your Eyes Open
I did something taboo. I opened my eyes while praying.
It was in Nicaragua during our bible study on Wednesday night. Everyone was praying at the same time, aloud, in Spanish and English. It was the most beautiful thing I have ever heard. Holding hands while speaking to our God, we were all praying for something different. While praying, I would take breaks and try to understand some of the ladies prayers, so that I could pray for them too. Some were thanking God for blessing them with their children and job. Some were crying out with prayer requests about their husbands. Some were asking why people in their life were not saved. Some thanked God for us being there. Some just cried.
But I opened my eyes, while praying out loud, and looked around. I saw Him in every lady in that room. I saw Him in every corner of the building. I saw Him everywhere. It was like nothing I have ever experienced before, it was truly magnificent.
I closed my eyes and keep praying. For the ladies, children, and men in Rio Blanco...for I knew He was there. He was listening. He was loving His children.
It was in Nicaragua during our bible study on Wednesday night. Everyone was praying at the same time, aloud, in Spanish and English. It was the most beautiful thing I have ever heard. Holding hands while speaking to our God, we were all praying for something different. While praying, I would take breaks and try to understand some of the ladies prayers, so that I could pray for them too. Some were thanking God for blessing them with their children and job. Some were crying out with prayer requests about their husbands. Some were asking why people in their life were not saved. Some thanked God for us being there. Some just cried.
But I opened my eyes, while praying out loud, and looked around. I saw Him in every lady in that room. I saw Him in every corner of the building. I saw Him everywhere. It was like nothing I have ever experienced before, it was truly magnificent.
I closed my eyes and keep praying. For the ladies, children, and men in Rio Blanco...for I knew He was there. He was listening. He was loving His children.
Nicaragua
Nicaragua was amazing. Such a wonderful mission trip in only one week. We had about 10 people go with us from Millbrook and we went down to minister to the people of Rio Blanco; which is the most beautiful place I have ever seen. God is so good!
We could definitely feel every one's prayers and I am so thankful for those that were praying. The people down there were very interested in everything we told them about God's kingdom.
We got to go to three different places to see children: Ruben Dario escuela, La Ponsana escuela, and the Red Bridge iglesia. Los ninos were always well-behaved and loved playing with us, gringos. :) We taught them about the 10 commandments, God's salvation, and hygiene and how they can remain healthy. Every child got a salvation card and bracelet that we made together, and either a toothbrush and toothpaste or soap and a washcloth. It was so humbling to see people get so excited about these "little" items that we take so for granted.
With las mujeres, we got to make crafts with them at the Ruben Dario school and share the Gospel with them, as well. Such a lively bunch and they really enjoyed knitting, making hair bows and earrings, and painting stained glass look-a-likes. Another day at La Ponsana, we cooked with the women, which was very interesting. The cupcake bread we made, looked kinda ugly, but tasted great. The women were just excited to have learned a new recipe and get some cooking supplies for their own home. That night we had bible study with a few ladies and learned about some of their struggles. We prayed with them which was so beautiful (and I will write another post about an experience here). I think this is when I truly fell in love with the Nicaraguan people. The next day, we got to visit some of the same ladies in their homes and have more talking and sharing time. Every lady and her children were so welcoming to us and made us feel at home. It was a beautiful time.
I must admit, that spending time with the children was my favorite part of the trip. I must have painted 300 faces and hugged 300 kids. It was so neat to speak their language (what little I knew) and talk to them about Jesus, familia, y escuela. They loved hearing us talk and just being near us. I just loved watching them. Children really are God's biggest blessing to us.
I am so thankful that God sent me on this trip and the blessings He poured out around us. We planted seeds all over Rio Blanco and I know that He is taking care of His children, and they are learning more about Him each day.
These are some of my very favorite pictures from the trip. Love...
We could definitely feel every one's prayers and I am so thankful for those that were praying. The people down there were very interested in everything we told them about God's kingdom.
We got to go to three different places to see children: Ruben Dario escuela, La Ponsana escuela, and the Red Bridge iglesia. Los ninos were always well-behaved and loved playing with us, gringos. :) We taught them about the 10 commandments, God's salvation, and hygiene and how they can remain healthy. Every child got a salvation card and bracelet that we made together, and either a toothbrush and toothpaste or soap and a washcloth. It was so humbling to see people get so excited about these "little" items that we take so for granted.
With las mujeres, we got to make crafts with them at the Ruben Dario school and share the Gospel with them, as well. Such a lively bunch and they really enjoyed knitting, making hair bows and earrings, and painting stained glass look-a-likes. Another day at La Ponsana, we cooked with the women, which was very interesting. The cupcake bread we made, looked kinda ugly, but tasted great. The women were just excited to have learned a new recipe and get some cooking supplies for their own home. That night we had bible study with a few ladies and learned about some of their struggles. We prayed with them which was so beautiful (and I will write another post about an experience here). I think this is when I truly fell in love with the Nicaraguan people. The next day, we got to visit some of the same ladies in their homes and have more talking and sharing time. Every lady and her children were so welcoming to us and made us feel at home. It was a beautiful time.
I must admit, that spending time with the children was my favorite part of the trip. I must have painted 300 faces and hugged 300 kids. It was so neat to speak their language (what little I knew) and talk to them about Jesus, familia, y escuela. They loved hearing us talk and just being near us. I just loved watching them. Children really are God's biggest blessing to us.
I am so thankful that God sent me on this trip and the blessings He poured out around us. We planted seeds all over Rio Blanco and I know that He is taking care of His children, and they are learning more about Him each day.
These are some of my very favorite pictures from the trip. Love...
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Prayer Requests for Nicaragua Trip
I'm leaving this Saturday for a week for Nicaragua. I am so pumped about what the Lord is going to do through our team while we are down there. Prayers would be wonderful, so that God can bless the people we will meet and help us bring His word to them.
This is our schedule. If you could please keep this in your prayers, as it dictates our whole trip.
12:00 Saturday, June 12, leave Aiken for Atlanta
5:45 pm fly out of Atlanta to Nicaragua
7:36 pm arrive in Managua, spend the night (2 hour difference)
8:00 am travel to Rio Blanco
Monday-construction for church foundation & Bible stories, crafts, & hygiene at school
8:00 Men go to La Ponsona,construction;women to Rubin Dario school:4-6 grades.
12:00 lunch break
2:00 Women return to Rubin Dario School: 1-3 grades
Tuesday- construction for church foundation & working with teachers at Rubin Dario
8:00 Same locations. Women work with the teachers doing crafts
12:00 lunch break
2:00 New location, Iglesia Peniel, sharing hygiene & bible stories with children
*6:00 Men's bible study- Pablo's house
Wednesday-construction continues & women to La Ponzona
8:00 All to same area, women have all ages of children for VBS
12:00 lunch
2:00 baking with mothers and sharing Jesus and men at construction sight
*6:00 women's study at Claudio and Pablo's house. Compassion to women.
Thursday - construction for men- La Ponsona
8:00 men to construction sight
9:00 women visiting womens homes *prayer needs listed-Rio Blanco
12:00 lunch
2:00 continue visiting women in Rio Blanco and men at construction sight.
6:00 dinner and packing up. Sharing with Pablo & family, giving gifts.
Friday- travel to Managua.
7:00 leave for guest house, visit volcano, possible shopping
Saturday- June 19
7:35 am fly out of Managua to Atlanta
1:21 pm arrive in Atlanta
5:30 to 6:00 pm estimated arrival in Aiken!
Some of the specfic women that we will be ministering to are as follows, please pray for them and their situations.
Sandra - 27 yrs old married w? 2 daughters, suffers from domestic violence. Her husband is unfaithful and is an alcoholic
Yubelka - 30 yrs od married with 3 children, husband is unfaithful.
Eufemia - 39 yrs. od with 4 children, victim of domestic violence, alcoholic husband.
Marta - 38 yrs. single mother with 2 teenage daughters
Maria - 34 yrs. old married with 3 children. Pastor's wife, husband's ministry is starting and she is trying to adapt.
Josefa -45 yrs old, married with 7 children. Has been indecisive about accepting Christ
Elba- married with 5 children. Alcoholic husband. She beats her husband.
Joselyn 26 yrs. old, single mother with 2 children. She's involved with a married man
Vanessa - 31 yrs. old. Marries with 2 children. She and her husband drink liquor
Jenny - 26 yrs old, single mother with one baby. Indecisive about accepting Christ.
Yuri - 28 yrs old, married with one child who has Down Syndrome. Her husband left her.
Emma - 50 years old. Single mother with 4 children. Indecisive about accepting Christ.
If you could also pray for all the children that we will come in contact with. We have many salvation tools that we will be sharing with them and really hope that they come to know our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Thank you so much for your prayers and support. I will post after the trip so everyone knows how it went. God bless...
This is our schedule. If you could please keep this in your prayers, as it dictates our whole trip.
12:00 Saturday, June 12, leave Aiken for Atlanta
5:45 pm fly out of Atlanta to Nicaragua
7:36 pm arrive in Managua, spend the night (2 hour difference)
8:00 am travel to Rio Blanco
Monday-construction for church foundation & Bible stories, crafts, & hygiene at school
8:00 Men go to La Ponsona,construction;women to Rubin Dario school:4-6 grades.
12:00 lunch break
2:00 Women return to Rubin Dario School: 1-3 grades
Tuesday- construction for church foundation & working with teachers at Rubin Dario
8:00 Same locations. Women work with the teachers doing crafts
12:00 lunch break
2:00 New location, Iglesia Peniel, sharing hygiene & bible stories with children
*6:00 Men's bible study- Pablo's house
Wednesday-construction continues & women to La Ponzona
8:00 All to same area, women have all ages of children for VBS
12:00 lunch
2:00 baking with mothers and sharing Jesus and men at construction sight
*6:00 women's study at Claudio and Pablo's house. Compassion to women.
Thursday - construction for men- La Ponsona
8:00 men to construction sight
9:00 women visiting womens homes *prayer needs listed-Rio Blanco
12:00 lunch
2:00 continue visiting women in Rio Blanco and men at construction sight.
6:00 dinner and packing up. Sharing with Pablo & family, giving gifts.
Friday- travel to Managua.
7:00 leave for guest house, visit volcano, possible shopping
Saturday- June 19
7:35 am fly out of Managua to Atlanta
1:21 pm arrive in Atlanta
5:30 to 6:00 pm estimated arrival in Aiken!
Some of the specfic women that we will be ministering to are as follows, please pray for them and their situations.
Sandra - 27 yrs old married w? 2 daughters, suffers from domestic violence. Her husband is unfaithful and is an alcoholic
Yubelka - 30 yrs od married with 3 children, husband is unfaithful.
Eufemia - 39 yrs. od with 4 children, victim of domestic violence, alcoholic husband.
Marta - 38 yrs. single mother with 2 teenage daughters
Maria - 34 yrs. old married with 3 children. Pastor's wife, husband's ministry is starting and she is trying to adapt.
Josefa -45 yrs old, married with 7 children. Has been indecisive about accepting Christ
Elba- married with 5 children. Alcoholic husband. She beats her husband.
Joselyn 26 yrs. old, single mother with 2 children. She's involved with a married man
Vanessa - 31 yrs. old. Marries with 2 children. She and her husband drink liquor
Jenny - 26 yrs old, single mother with one baby. Indecisive about accepting Christ.
Yuri - 28 yrs old, married with one child who has Down Syndrome. Her husband left her.
Emma - 50 years old. Single mother with 4 children. Indecisive about accepting Christ.
If you could also pray for all the children that we will come in contact with. We have many salvation tools that we will be sharing with them and really hope that they come to know our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Thank you so much for your prayers and support. I will post after the trip so everyone knows how it went. God bless...
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Number Two People
Something that I have always wanted to blog about, but never had the courage, is Number Two people. My daddy has always said that there are two types of people in the world: Number Ones and Number Twos. The Number Twos do not want to be Number Ones, they just want the Number Ones to be Number Twos with them. How right is this?! I've been seeing it so often lately. Jealousy and envy of those close to us. If we can't have it, we don't want anyone else to either.
I've have always made it a big part of my life to try and not be envious of others. Sure, there's been times, but I've always managed it pretty well. I just think of how blessed I truly and and go on with my day. But people---come on, some of us are way to jealous. Think you aren't? Do you gossip?-You're jealous. (But I really don't need to get started on gossiping)...Do you want things you don't have?-You're envious. Do you get upset when your friends hang out with other people?-You're jealous! When friends/family go through really happy times, are you happy for them?-If not, you're jealous!!
We've got to stop being Number Two people. You'll never be happy wishing you had this, or that. God gives you what He knows you need, and other's differently. When you are envious of someone, you're really just saying that what God gave you wasn't good enough. Ever think about it that way?...
Make it a daily habit in your life to pray that you won't have jealousy. Rejoice when great circumstances happen to those close around you. Be happy for what you have, because I promise you, you are blessed.
I've have always made it a big part of my life to try and not be envious of others. Sure, there's been times, but I've always managed it pretty well. I just think of how blessed I truly and and go on with my day. But people---come on, some of us are way to jealous. Think you aren't? Do you gossip?-You're jealous. (But I really don't need to get started on gossiping)...Do you want things you don't have?-You're envious. Do you get upset when your friends hang out with other people?-You're jealous! When friends/family go through really happy times, are you happy for them?-If not, you're jealous!!
We've got to stop being Number Two people. You'll never be happy wishing you had this, or that. God gives you what He knows you need, and other's differently. When you are envious of someone, you're really just saying that what God gave you wasn't good enough. Ever think about it that way?...
Make it a daily habit in your life to pray that you won't have jealousy. Rejoice when great circumstances happen to those close around you. Be happy for what you have, because I promise you, you are blessed.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Guardian Angel
I have a Guardian Angel and I am so blessed. Javonte Clanton was a close friend of mine and he died a year ago in March from a car accident (check earlier blog posts for more details). Ever since he has passed, I have always felt as if he was looking down on me, watching me, and taking care of dangerous circumstances. I understand that the Lord is in charge of all, but I do believe that He appoints guardians on His children.
I have had several things happen in the 13 months that he has been dead that lead me to believe that he is my angel, but this one definitely proved me thoughts true. I was driving home from Charleston, delivering a car for my dad, when the gas light comes on. Ughhh. The way that I was coming home wasn't even my normal way because of a detour on the back roads. So I look around for a "safe" exit, but just pull off on one pray God protects me.
The gas station had bars all over the windows and NO cars in the parking lot. I grabbed my keys, pepper spray, and cell phone and went inside to the ladies room. As I'm walking out, 4 cars pull up from all different directions like something out of a movie. It really scared me. I prayed as I walked to the car to go fill up.
Now I hate pumping gas as it is but today was just not good. The gas cap would not come off. Would not even budge, it just kept locking. I tried for 10 minutes before I was on my knees behind the car praying, begging God to open it. I get back up, try again, nothing. A man walks to his car, so I get his attention and he comes over. He tries for about 5 minutes and gives up, says sorry, then walks away. I am devastated. I get into my car, lock the doors, and call my dad, almost in tears.
As I'm talking to him, I notice a different man at the back of my car. I get out, wondering what he's doing, while still on the phone with my dad. He says simply "Did you need the gas cap off?" I say yes, he twists it and smiles. It comes off no problem. Before I can barely say thank you, he walks away. I tell my dad what has just happened and look up to see the man again. He's gone. No cars are around anymore. No one to be found. I pump my gas and leave, praising and thanking my precious Lord the whole way home. I even think about Javonte and thank God for watching over me.
I get back to the office where I take off my dealer tag and go inside. I walk in my office and put the tag on the desk. I look down and almost pass out. The number on the tag is like two letters a bunch of 0's then 22.
22. Javonte's number. I just KNEW that he was watching me and was so thankful for having him as my guardian angel. I love you Javonte Clanton. Rest in Peace babe.
I have had several things happen in the 13 months that he has been dead that lead me to believe that he is my angel, but this one definitely proved me thoughts true. I was driving home from Charleston, delivering a car for my dad, when the gas light comes on. Ughhh. The way that I was coming home wasn't even my normal way because of a detour on the back roads. So I look around for a "safe" exit, but just pull off on one pray God protects me.
The gas station had bars all over the windows and NO cars in the parking lot. I grabbed my keys, pepper spray, and cell phone and went inside to the ladies room. As I'm walking out, 4 cars pull up from all different directions like something out of a movie. It really scared me. I prayed as I walked to the car to go fill up.
Now I hate pumping gas as it is but today was just not good. The gas cap would not come off. Would not even budge, it just kept locking. I tried for 10 minutes before I was on my knees behind the car praying, begging God to open it. I get back up, try again, nothing. A man walks to his car, so I get his attention and he comes over. He tries for about 5 minutes and gives up, says sorry, then walks away. I am devastated. I get into my car, lock the doors, and call my dad, almost in tears.
As I'm talking to him, I notice a different man at the back of my car. I get out, wondering what he's doing, while still on the phone with my dad. He says simply "Did you need the gas cap off?" I say yes, he twists it and smiles. It comes off no problem. Before I can barely say thank you, he walks away. I tell my dad what has just happened and look up to see the man again. He's gone. No cars are around anymore. No one to be found. I pump my gas and leave, praising and thanking my precious Lord the whole way home. I even think about Javonte and thank God for watching over me.
I get back to the office where I take off my dealer tag and go inside. I walk in my office and put the tag on the desk. I look down and almost pass out. The number on the tag is like two letters a bunch of 0's then 22.
22. Javonte's number. I just KNEW that he was watching me and was so thankful for having him as my guardian angel. I love you Javonte Clanton. Rest in Peace babe.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
My Head is Exploding....
I have so much I want to say and type and write...I just don't know that I can put all my thoughts out there and actually make sense. But of course, I will try...
God has been seriously teaching me this week. About patience, prayer, selfishness, and true Christian friends...so really, the things He's been teaching me for awhile now. I just can't get enough of Him. And a new thing: insecurity.
I went Beth Moore this weekend (in Atlanta) with the lovely women of my Church and she was AWESOME. The conference was based on her new book: So Long Insecurity, You've Been a Bad Friend to Me, which I of course had to buy. It's so great so far, and I'm only on page like 27. So for those of you who didn't get to go, I'm going to write out some of her main points that really stuck with me. :)
--Insecurity is not a weakness, it's a unbelief in God!
--God wants to bless you by being a woman--embrace it!
--A SECURE women is:
Saved from herself
Entitled to Truth
Clothed with Intention
Upended by Grace
Rebounded by Love
Exceptional in life
And she said sooo much more awesome, everyday things...but you should visit her blog for more: (http://blog.lproof.org).
Still learning about prayer in Sunday School and everyday in my devotions. One thing Matt has said that has really been ringing in my heart is how we always pay attention to these two verses: "11For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope...13When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart." (Jeremiah 29:11&13) But there is a verse in between those...a verse we sometimes read over. "12Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you." (Jeremiah 29:12) Hear that? For those other two verses to work, we have to PRAY, really pray.
Onto the true Christian friends. I seriously just wake up everyday and praise God for the people He has put in my life. It's so insane how much He has blessed me and how He keeps placing the most beautiful people in my life at the absolutely perfect moments. (On being patient--and we all know that God doesn't give us patience, He puts us in situations to be patient). "3I thank my God every time I remember you, 4constantly praying for all of you..." Philippians 1:3-4 So a little shout out to all my wonderful friends, love you guys.
...And onto a side note: we had our first Nicaragua meeting tonight and I am soo siked. I cannot wait to see what God is going to do through our team down there. A verse that I thought of during this was: "For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than live in tents of wickedness." Psalm 84:10 And I love this because when it says doorkeeper, I just think of being a missionary and telling everyone about Jesus. And how much I can't wait to be in His house, at His door, with all my fellow believers.
Love.xoxo.
God has been seriously teaching me this week. About patience, prayer, selfishness, and true Christian friends...so really, the things He's been teaching me for awhile now. I just can't get enough of Him. And a new thing: insecurity.
I went Beth Moore this weekend (in Atlanta) with the lovely women of my Church and she was AWESOME. The conference was based on her new book: So Long Insecurity, You've Been a Bad Friend to Me, which I of course had to buy. It's so great so far, and I'm only on page like 27. So for those of you who didn't get to go, I'm going to write out some of her main points that really stuck with me. :)
--Insecurity is not a weakness, it's a unbelief in God!
--God wants to bless you by being a woman--embrace it!
--A SECURE women is:
Saved from herself
Entitled to Truth
Clothed with Intention
Upended by Grace
Rebounded by Love
Exceptional in life
And she said sooo much more awesome, everyday things...but you should visit her blog for more: (http://blog.lproof.org).
Still learning about prayer in Sunday School and everyday in my devotions. One thing Matt has said that has really been ringing in my heart is how we always pay attention to these two verses: "11For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope...13When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart." (Jeremiah 29:11&13) But there is a verse in between those...a verse we sometimes read over. "12Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you." (Jeremiah 29:12) Hear that? For those other two verses to work, we have to PRAY, really pray.
Onto the true Christian friends. I seriously just wake up everyday and praise God for the people He has put in my life. It's so insane how much He has blessed me and how He keeps placing the most beautiful people in my life at the absolutely perfect moments. (On being patient--and we all know that God doesn't give us patience, He puts us in situations to be patient). "3I thank my God every time I remember you, 4constantly praying for all of you..." Philippians 1:3-4 So a little shout out to all my wonderful friends, love you guys.
...And onto a side note: we had our first Nicaragua meeting tonight and I am soo siked. I cannot wait to see what God is going to do through our team down there. A verse that I thought of during this was: "For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than live in tents of wickedness." Psalm 84:10 And I love this because when it says doorkeeper, I just think of being a missionary and telling everyone about Jesus. And how much I can't wait to be in His house, at His door, with all my fellow believers.
Love.xoxo.
Rachel :)
My lovely little cousin, Rachel Larson, was baptized today! I was so super proud to watch as she started her journey with Christ. I love her so much and I cannot wait to see what she does for the Kingdom of God when she gets to be a little bit older.
Love you Rae
Love you Rae
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
YES, I do believe I can do all things through CHRIST who strenghtens me!
A large update is in need. Tis the last week of classes and I've been pulling almost-all-nighters a lot. Just finished a speech on Deaf Communication, dedicated to my beautiful friend Ashlyn. And speaking of speeches...I have a prayer request/story....
This past Thursday, I presented my Spanish oral presentation in class on Nicaragua. I really rocked it and everyone was laughing and clapping at everything. My professor even said I did great and that I could sit down after question and answer time happened. I handed him my outline and sat down.
He looked at, looked back at me, and asked me if I really believed I could do all things through Christ who strengthened me. I said YES. You see, I write that verse on every speech outline I do, so that I don't get too nervous. Well, he replied and said that if I could do all things through Christ who strengthened me, that I would have done better on that presentation. Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaait a second, did he just say I did bad because I love Jesus? Yes, he did. Not much else was said during class, and I left pretty quickly after wards.
I was upset, but walked along in the hallway. I turn around a few minutes later and my professor is there. He says he has a question for me and asks me again if I really believe I can do all things through Christ who strengthen me. I answer with a very bold YES. He basically says that's all nonsense and that he doesn't believe in my God. He always says that I should be bi-lingual if I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. He asked me what I stood on and I said MY FAITH and he walked away.
So God has planted a seed through me and I pray that He will continue to sow it. I will definitely be a witness to him, still and try to help him see the truth. I have just never been prosecuted for my faith in this way, but I know that God has a plan for everything. I trust His plan and I trust Him.
On a lighter note, I had a wonderful weekend with my family and friends. Dad, Kendall and I went to Atlanta for the Hawks game Saturday which was so much fun. I really cherish time with both of them. Family means everything to me, nothing is better :)
Sunday was church and then to Charleston!! We went to Folly Beach and had blast in the wind! lol And then to Needtobreathe!! They were amazing and it was a great night.
Loveeeeeeee.
This past Thursday, I presented my Spanish oral presentation in class on Nicaragua. I really rocked it and everyone was laughing and clapping at everything. My professor even said I did great and that I could sit down after question and answer time happened. I handed him my outline and sat down.
He looked at, looked back at me, and asked me if I really believed I could do all things through Christ who strengthened me. I said YES. You see, I write that verse on every speech outline I do, so that I don't get too nervous. Well, he replied and said that if I could do all things through Christ who strengthened me, that I would have done better on that presentation. Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaait a second, did he just say I did bad because I love Jesus? Yes, he did. Not much else was said during class, and I left pretty quickly after wards.
I was upset, but walked along in the hallway. I turn around a few minutes later and my professor is there. He says he has a question for me and asks me again if I really believe I can do all things through Christ who strengthen me. I answer with a very bold YES. He basically says that's all nonsense and that he doesn't believe in my God. He always says that I should be bi-lingual if I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. He asked me what I stood on and I said MY FAITH and he walked away.
So God has planted a seed through me and I pray that He will continue to sow it. I will definitely be a witness to him, still and try to help him see the truth. I have just never been prosecuted for my faith in this way, but I know that God has a plan for everything. I trust His plan and I trust Him.
On a lighter note, I had a wonderful weekend with my family and friends. Dad, Kendall and I went to Atlanta for the Hawks game Saturday which was so much fun. I really cherish time with both of them. Family means everything to me, nothing is better :)
Sunday was church and then to Charleston!! We went to Folly Beach and had blast in the wind! lol And then to Needtobreathe!! They were amazing and it was a great night.
Loveeeeeeee.
Monday, April 12, 2010
The Lost Sheep--yesterday's sermon--
One of my friend's that doesn't really go to my church, Millbrook Baptist, obviously didn't hear yesterday's sermon "God's Lost and Found: The Lost Sheep" (Eddie Leopard) and God has laid it on my heart to tell her about it. So here you go dear friend...
The Lost Sheep
Luke 15:1-7
1Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. 2And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, "This man receives sinners and eats with them." 3So he told them this parable: 4"What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? 5And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found my lost sheep that was lost.' 7Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.
I. The Condition of the Sheep
*sheep--not very smart--a person without Jesus in their heart lacks spiritual wisdom
*sheep lack direction, they often leave their shepherd--a person without Jesus (or not fully following His will), will lose their way from God
*sheep are defenseless at the mercy of what comes along--a person without Christ lacks defense against the devil
II. The Compassion of the Shepherd
*also check out: Psalm 23 & John 10
*he leaves 99 sheep and goes after the one lost sheep--the good shepherd always goes after the lost sheep
*not about the value of the sheep, but the love of the shepherd
III. The Celebration of Salvation
*Luke 19:10: For the Son of the Man came to seek and save the lost.
*you don't find God--He finds you. He pursues you, seeks you, and searches for you.
*you obtain salvation when He finds you, and you accept Him--when you seek Him with your whole heart!
So basically, do not ever feel like God has given up on you, that He is mad or upset with you. Yes, He might be disappointed and sad in your actions, but He will always love you! You are His child and He is sitting and waiting on you to come back to Him. Start putting Him back in your life. He wants you.
The Lost Sheep
Luke 15:1-7
1Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. 2And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, "This man receives sinners and eats with them." 3So he told them this parable: 4"What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? 5And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found my lost sheep that was lost.' 7Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.
I. The Condition of the Sheep
*sheep--not very smart--a person without Jesus in their heart lacks spiritual wisdom
*sheep lack direction, they often leave their shepherd--a person without Jesus (or not fully following His will), will lose their way from God
*sheep are defenseless at the mercy of what comes along--a person without Christ lacks defense against the devil
II. The Compassion of the Shepherd
*also check out: Psalm 23 & John 10
*he leaves 99 sheep and goes after the one lost sheep--the good shepherd always goes after the lost sheep
*not about the value of the sheep, but the love of the shepherd
III. The Celebration of Salvation
*Luke 19:10: For the Son of the Man came to seek and save the lost.
*you don't find God--He finds you. He pursues you, seeks you, and searches for you.
*you obtain salvation when He finds you, and you accept Him--when you seek Him with your whole heart!
So basically, do not ever feel like God has given up on you, that He is mad or upset with you. Yes, He might be disappointed and sad in your actions, but He will always love you! You are His child and He is sitting and waiting on you to come back to Him. Start putting Him back in your life. He wants you.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Pray
Today in Sunday School we talked a little bit about wisdom and prayer. Prayer. I just get so caught up in my day-to-day that a lot of times, praying is the last thing that I do. You know, right before you go to sleep, that 5 minutes when you're eyes are heavy and you're almost out. Yup, that's when I've been praying. However, the past week or so, I have been doing better.
Matt Bracket (our Sunday School teacher) said that if you love God with all your heart that you'd be praying without ceasing. Whoooooooa. That made my heart drop. Does that mean that I don't love Him with all my heart? I know that if I neglected another relationship that I had, like I sometimes tend to do with God, that they would thing I didn't love them. So why do we neglect our relationship with God? Why do we only give Him the last 5 minutes of our day?
Praying without ceasing and fully trusting have always been my biggest struggles, but lately I've been making those the start of my day. If you continue to pray about something, it will always be on your mind. So I've just been praying about trusting God and continually giving everything to Him. Yes, everything.
So when you read this, reflect about your prayer time and think about how often you do this. How many other things come before you praying? God should be first and foremost. Make Him that!
Matt Bracket (our Sunday School teacher) said that if you love God with all your heart that you'd be praying without ceasing. Whoooooooa. That made my heart drop. Does that mean that I don't love Him with all my heart? I know that if I neglected another relationship that I had, like I sometimes tend to do with God, that they would thing I didn't love them. So why do we neglect our relationship with God? Why do we only give Him the last 5 minutes of our day?
Praying without ceasing and fully trusting have always been my biggest struggles, but lately I've been making those the start of my day. If you continue to pray about something, it will always be on your mind. So I've just been praying about trusting God and continually giving everything to Him. Yes, everything.
So when you read this, reflect about your prayer time and think about how often you do this. How many other things come before you praying? God should be first and foremost. Make Him that!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Here am I; Send me!
A little bit of past: For the past several years I have felt a calling for missions. I've been on many mission trips, in the United States and even traveling to Kenya, Africa this past summer. I know my calling is from the Lord and He has reaffirmed it in my heart many times. After going to Kenya I felt that this is where He wanted me and was looking forward to Him sending me back this summer.
My first opportunity to go back: August 5-15. I was estastic and knew that God was leading me back. However, my dear friend Chrissie got engaged and set her wedding date for August 7th, then asking me to be a bridesmaid. I knew that it was something I wanted to do; she had asked me months before. I declined from that trip and began to pray about another one. Score! A trip in July, with New Directions. Again, I just knew it was a sign from God. But many factors kept coming up that were pulling me away from the trip. I prayed and prayed and felt that maybe I was not supposed to be in Kenya this summer. But I didn't want to admit that to myself or anyone else so soon.
Fast forward to last week: Still praying and starting to seek advice from my parents about the situation. Three of out the four of my parents all said that maybe I should go and explore other areas of the world. That maybe God needed me somewhere else this summer. I prayed over that, but wondered where could it possibly be.
Then to this week: A man that is a dear family friend (and one of the strongest Christians that I know) tells me that he's going on a mission trip with our church this summer. He's going to Nicaragua. I start thinking: "that would be an awesome trip to go on. I've been in Spanish class for the past year and I've been waiting for a time to use it. But I'm sure he's about to tell me that it's full, or an adult only trip." ......"Hey Chelsea, you know, you should go with us." Okay God, I hear you. When He calls, we must answer. I have heard Him call, and I will go wherever He sends.
"Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?' And I said, 'Here am I; send me!' And he said GO." Isaiah 6:8-9
Yo voy a Nicaragua!
My first opportunity to go back: August 5-15. I was estastic and knew that God was leading me back. However, my dear friend Chrissie got engaged and set her wedding date for August 7th, then asking me to be a bridesmaid. I knew that it was something I wanted to do; she had asked me months before. I declined from that trip and began to pray about another one. Score! A trip in July, with New Directions. Again, I just knew it was a sign from God. But many factors kept coming up that were pulling me away from the trip. I prayed and prayed and felt that maybe I was not supposed to be in Kenya this summer. But I didn't want to admit that to myself or anyone else so soon.
Fast forward to last week: Still praying and starting to seek advice from my parents about the situation. Three of out the four of my parents all said that maybe I should go and explore other areas of the world. That maybe God needed me somewhere else this summer. I prayed over that, but wondered where could it possibly be.
Then to this week: A man that is a dear family friend (and one of the strongest Christians that I know) tells me that he's going on a mission trip with our church this summer. He's going to Nicaragua. I start thinking: "that would be an awesome trip to go on. I've been in Spanish class for the past year and I've been waiting for a time to use it. But I'm sure he's about to tell me that it's full, or an adult only trip." ......"Hey Chelsea, you know, you should go with us." Okay God, I hear you. When He calls, we must answer. I have heard Him call, and I will go wherever He sends.
"Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?' And I said, 'Here am I; send me!' And he said GO." Isaiah 6:8-9
Yo voy a Nicaragua!
Sunday, March 14, 2010
TONIGHT
Spring break...well here in Aiken it rained half the time. Not much of SPRING! But I managed to have a great time anyway. Got my nails done and my hair did, went shopping...a lot, hung out with family and friends, and of course, watched some good basketball.
Speaking of basketball, we won our first Regional tournament game yesterday. We played again tonight and lost. Really upsetting but my boys played hard this season and played with their HEARTS.
TOBYMAC was tonight! He was so so so good. We got the hook up with our tickets and actually got to meet Tobymac and Brandon Heath and it was so neat. They talked to us and answered questions, even sang happy birthday to another kid that was there. You could just tell that they love what they do because they know they're impacting people for the Lord's kingdom. After the meet and greet, came the concert!
House of Heros, Brandon Heath, and Toby all performed awesome! Kendall and I even met House of Heros too! Overall, it was an awesome night :) Some pictures...
Speaking of basketball, we won our first Regional tournament game yesterday. We played again tonight and lost. Really upsetting but my boys played hard this season and played with their HEARTS.
TOBYMAC was tonight! He was so so so good. We got the hook up with our tickets and actually got to meet Tobymac and Brandon Heath and it was so neat. They talked to us and answered questions, even sang happy birthday to another kid that was there. You could just tell that they love what they do because they know they're impacting people for the Lord's kingdom. After the meet and greet, came the concert!
House of Heros, Brandon Heath, and Toby all performed awesome! Kendall and I even met House of Heros too! Overall, it was an awesome night :) Some pictures...
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