What keeps us down? Thinking negatively. Is it beneficial to think you can't or will you succeed far more when you think that you can?
I'm not sure what I'm writing right now, I'm tightly coiled and trying to relax. It has been a day full of family, full of shopping, full of good things, but also short on personal time or space. I love my family and this need for time away has nothing to do with my feelings changing towards my husband, or towards my sister, or my step-dad or my mom. See, I used to think that it did. I used to be haunted by these feelings, but I'm starting to realize that perhaps we all get them and what matters is what we do in moments like these. I need to write, I need to run, I'm fighting off anxiety. I need more to my life, I, I, I. Am I really so selfish? God, I wish you would lead me. What is it you would have me to do? Why can't I feel whole and complete in every moment?...
Today was good. We went to the movies, saw The Hobbit. I've literally been waiting for more than a year to see that film. And it was awesome!
It got me thinking about the connections between that world and the biblical world. Dragons and giants, heros and courage. Hidden treasures and how they eat at your heart. Relationships and hope. Hope for a happy ending when all you might see is persistent corruption. One difference between the film and real life, the ugly side is plain out hideous. No glitter and glam covering up those evil minions. Nowadays, it isn't so easy to tell! What is evil? Where is the "good side?" On whose side can we cling when all hope seems to be lost? Who would you go to if you knew you were the last one holding onto a vision of restoration for a lost cause, that glimmer of light at the end of a very dark tunnel? All questions from The Hobbit, but of course, they really come from the conception of an idea from J.R.R. Tolkien. It was genius, really. A world outside of our own that allows people to hope because we don't realize that is what we are doing while watching a film. Hoping for the good guys to win, hoping for a rescue mission from every trap the heros fall in.
Hope is so far gone from today that some choose to mock those who insist on believing. Am I wrong? How do children treat that one child in their class who still naively brightens at the thought of Santa visiting on Christmas Eve? That child is mocked and scorned and perhaps worse yet, is told he or she is wrong. It sounds cruel right, but how much crueler are those who have lost their faith in a Heavenly Father, the giver of all good things, to those who firmly choose to believe? They mock, they curse, they raise themselves up superiorly and "explain" how Jesus couldn't possibly exist. But, Jesus isn't a man who rides on a sleigh, nor is his existence tangible. It is, however, the same as love. You feel it, you experience it's existence and therefore know it is real. Now, I'm willing to bet if you have given up on Christ than you might not be so keen on the idea of love, so let's say believing in Christ is the same as what you feel when you are having fun. You know you feel it, it takes you over, you begin smiling, laughing, perhaps becoming so out of your mind that you forget yourself all together and look at the communal laughter spreading around the room. That's fun, or joy. Something Jesus promises to you when you choose to believe in him.
So, the difference between Santa and Jesus? One's gift is wrapped and put under a tree while the other's presence will never go out of style, and once you have it, you can give it away and still have plenty enough to keep. Jesus is good, is what I'm trying to say. During a time in my life when I could feel down and out, grumpy and stressed, or addicted to booze and out on the streets, I'm turning to the one I call my saviour and I'm standing up and believing in Faith. I'm holding on to Hope. I'm asking others to love one another and to spread good cheer. I want as many as can to hear about Jesus because I'm starting to reason that His love is the best gift I have EVER received. Maybe I'm lucky to have the mother I have, the husband I do, the family who cares so much about one another, but I don't think so. I don't believe in coincidences that strong, otherwise I'd have won more raffles and hit the jackpot at least once all those years ago.
I heard it said once that what you have when you have Christ is not richness in gold, but wealth in relationships and ever since last year, this time exactly, I have had just that. I love God and all the amazing things that have happened in my life since I gave Him my heart. I'm so thankful and grateful and, I'm learning, gratitude can take you a very long way.
I pray I can keep this joy. I pray that we can put an end to negativity. I pray that you hear these words and allow your hope to be (re)kindled, that you will allow yourself to believe that the maker of the heavens and the earth has thoughtfully formed you, that He loves you inside and out and wants you to get to a place where you can curl up in a ball, blanket draped snugly over your body and rest. That you can rest softly in His presence and think of all that you've done and have peace and then, to go one step further, that maybe the next time you are laying down and realizing how much love you have, you will be encouraged to give some of it back to the people surrounding you. I pray blessings around you and your family and that you get all that you are willing to give. God willing. Good night and good year! May we all have the courage to do what we dream of and the blessings and grace to achieve that and that the warmth to continue giving. Amen and Merry Christmas,
love always and sincerely,
Jennifer Cotham.
Sweet Dreams!!! :)
Friday, December 14, 2012
Thursday, December 13, 2012
My life is like...
When it comes to blogging, I'm doing fine. I feel adequate and comfortable. When it comes to laundry, I check it off my list. I'm going along "doing just fine" and then, "Wham!" It hits me. I haven't a thing to do in my world that has meaning or creates an impression of who I am. Am I being negative? I have titles, Christian, Wife, Daughter, Cousin, Aunt, Friend and each position has adjectives attached: nice, cute, friendly, hopeful, fun, strict, moody, loving, compassionate, reliable, responsible, prompt, selfless, but at other times very much selfish. There are duties, also, that I am required to do in each position that I fill: call, talk, share, love, caress, feed, nourish, play, laugh, speak, pray, pray, and pray. I am required to do dishes and other chores, write, read, and maintain an approachable level of hygiene (this one is demanding in more than one surprising category). The point is, I have a lot of pressure on my shoulders at the moment, but the truth is, God does not require us to fulfill any societal pressures. The most reassuring verse in the Bible, for now, came from Proverbs 31 because it taught me to pray that my husband would have full confidence in me as his wife. If he feels confident in me, then I suppose I should feel the same as well. If I'm praying for everyone else, I have many more people to pray for me, too. In every situation I could think about what I give out or what I gain in return. The second category is FAR weightier than the first. Think about it, I do minimal work for my mother, but in return receive love when I pray, when I see my husband, when I see my mom, etc. It is an amazing cycle.
I have a great life. I eat when I want to, more often than not. I can bundle up when I get cold or use the air-conditioner when I am warm. I have a shower to use daily, if not, extravagant as it is, twice a day! My clothes are easily cleaned in the washing machine and dried in a similar fashion. I have books to read and all the opportunity in the world to educate myself. I don't want to squander any of it and I don't want to mumble along the way... I am struggling for self-expression when all the while it is me who threatens my ability to see myself clearly. What seems to be the problem? I grow stagnant. I get bored. I get greedy and I get complacent. What is it I would like to do?
I would like to write a book. I would like to love people and give them hope. I would like to fulfill my calling, I would like to be adventurous, I would like to live vibrantly, I would like to talk to people and encourage them, I would like to stop sweating the small things, I would like to worry less, I would like to walk my dog more often, I would like to show more love to my siblings, I would like to everyday pour all that I have out of me, I would like to bury fear and doubt and repression, I would like to kick any lies about those three former things square in the mouth and then stomp on their heads. I would like to know what makes me tick, what makes me smile and pursue those things, I would like to know the balance between pride and confidence, I would like to have confidence in my actions and in every moment in between. I would like to pursue my goals and my dreams, I would like to feel supported by my loved ones, I would like to embrace change and I would like to communicate more easily. I would like to rip the curtain away from the window in order to see every flaw and perfection more clearly, I would like to embrace my life more fully. I would like to live my life like never before and like I am no longer waiting for anyone else to get me going. I am no longer going to be held back by the small things, but I would like to wake up with a running start, no matter what it is that I'll be doing. We come into this world kicking and screaming and I intend, to the best of my ability, to go out exactly the same way.
I have a great life. I eat when I want to, more often than not. I can bundle up when I get cold or use the air-conditioner when I am warm. I have a shower to use daily, if not, extravagant as it is, twice a day! My clothes are easily cleaned in the washing machine and dried in a similar fashion. I have books to read and all the opportunity in the world to educate myself. I don't want to squander any of it and I don't want to mumble along the way... I am struggling for self-expression when all the while it is me who threatens my ability to see myself clearly. What seems to be the problem? I grow stagnant. I get bored. I get greedy and I get complacent. What is it I would like to do?
I would like to write a book. I would like to love people and give them hope. I would like to fulfill my calling, I would like to be adventurous, I would like to live vibrantly, I would like to talk to people and encourage them, I would like to stop sweating the small things, I would like to worry less, I would like to walk my dog more often, I would like to show more love to my siblings, I would like to everyday pour all that I have out of me, I would like to bury fear and doubt and repression, I would like to kick any lies about those three former things square in the mouth and then stomp on their heads. I would like to know what makes me tick, what makes me smile and pursue those things, I would like to know the balance between pride and confidence, I would like to have confidence in my actions and in every moment in between. I would like to pursue my goals and my dreams, I would like to feel supported by my loved ones, I would like to embrace change and I would like to communicate more easily. I would like to rip the curtain away from the window in order to see every flaw and perfection more clearly, I would like to embrace my life more fully. I would like to live my life like never before and like I am no longer waiting for anyone else to get me going. I am no longer going to be held back by the small things, but I would like to wake up with a running start, no matter what it is that I'll be doing. We come into this world kicking and screaming and I intend, to the best of my ability, to go out exactly the same way.
Almost a new year!!!!
If I had anything to believe, it would be this. That NOTHING could separate us from Christ. Not the knowledge of sin in our lives, not rebellion, not an ugly heart, not the criticisms or judgements from anyone else, but that God loves us. No matter what.
Romans 8:34- 39 "Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
36As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
37Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
38For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
39Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
I rely on Christ to strengthen me and I believe in Him through faith and hope. Hope. Hoping that what I believe, what I walk by daily, what I turn to in an argument for the right words, the words which bring peace, all of those things I hope in, would be true. I hope because it makes me happy. It makes me gleeful to think that what I read during that fight were "coincidentally" the same verses from my daily devotional, which I read some hours later in the day. That's called the Holy Spirit speaking to me. No, it isn't a voice in my head. Thank the Lord. It is concrete evidence that there is, and can be, more to this life than mtv or celebrities would lead you to believe. Does it take a leap of faith? Yes. Is it contrary to what we are taught to do, ever since we stopped believing in Santa Claus? Yes. Is it absolutely worth it and can it be measured based on spiritual growth, maturity and health? Yes. Yes, actual physical health will improve as you follow God. I don't know how. I might never understand, but I'm believing and the more I do, the more in awe I become. The more I can't live my life with out Jesus, on a daily basis. As I look back on this year, I'm amazed at how everything has turned out. I might not be where I thought I was going to be as I left my college town one year ago today (maybe a day or two less) but I'm so much better than then. Its a blessing to have added Christ to my life and I'm looking for the next year so I can see all the changes and blessings He adds to my life. It's a good thing to be a Christian and I look forward to celebrating Christ's birthday, not the presents under a tree.
As always, I hope everyone is having a good day and that hope abounds in our lives even more than ever before!
Love sincerely,
Jenn
Monday, November 19, 2012
Thanksgiving
With Thanksgiving just a few days around the corner, this verse caught my eye:
That was exactly what happened to me when I went away to college! I saw couples who lived together and didn't support the sanctity of marriage. I saw families created out of wedlock and "it was fine." I saw a whole bunch of this and fleeting happiness, but no answers to the questions I had had as a child. Slowly but surely my faith started to be chipped away, but coming back to Christ has made a world of difference and I'm determined to share my story if it means saving anyone else the heartache if they think they have to do it all by themselves or that no one loves them. Loving God allows me to love others, regardless of what I knew from my examples. Thats why I was finally able to get married and look forward to starting a family. God loves us and thats more than enough to be thankful for this holiday season!
Love sincerely,
Jenn
Colossians 2:7"Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving."
Being brought up in a Christian home, I can relate, to an extent. We can abound in Thanksgiving when we relish in the faith of our youth. Why is that? Lack of confusion. Lack of doubting something you believed as a child. I think of how badly it messed me up, thank God the results lessen everyday, to have my parents divorce and then to have the man my mother loved torn from my life around six years later. I began to rely on both these men, only to see them flee from my life and hardly look back except a time or two. I'm not blaming them, nor do I want sympathy, I'm using it as an example of why when I became an adult, I heartily refused the idea of a safe, loving, dependent marriage. "No way," I thought. I'd take my chances as a single woman in a world where that behavior was acceptable. But what was I doing to my heart in the mean time? I was denying the truth and that will make you do some backwards things.
For example, I love kids, but every time I saw a child when I was at the grocery store or movies, I would claim I could NEVER be a mother. "Eew, yuck, ouch, nooo," said I. Not me. I had all these maternal qualities, but the idea of settling down with a man? No thank you. And, why? Because I had hardly ever seen a good example of what a loving relationship really was. I saw heartache and kids who were produced and seemingly just got in the way. Never would I be the one to introduce a child into the world. I'm telling you, that childhood of mine had done me over!
However, it wasn't all bad. I was raised as a Christian. I prayed a lot as a little kid. I was about nine or so when I did my first fast. Regardless of the fact that I broke it around 5:30 when I saw some mint chocolate chip ice-cream in the freezer, I loved God. I loved dedicating my life to God and having a purpose, having someone to talk to! Crazy as that sounds, I didn't have many people who I felt saw me, if that makes sense. Obviously, an omnipresent God is just the one to fill that void which is why I am extremely thankful for His existence!
It's interesting to me too, the verse that comes next. Verse 8 goes:
"Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ."That was exactly what happened to me when I went away to college! I saw couples who lived together and didn't support the sanctity of marriage. I saw families created out of wedlock and "it was fine." I saw a whole bunch of this and fleeting happiness, but no answers to the questions I had had as a child. Slowly but surely my faith started to be chipped away, but coming back to Christ has made a world of difference and I'm determined to share my story if it means saving anyone else the heartache if they think they have to do it all by themselves or that no one loves them. Loving God allows me to love others, regardless of what I knew from my examples. Thats why I was finally able to get married and look forward to starting a family. God loves us and thats more than enough to be thankful for this holiday season!
Love sincerely,
Jenn
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Just Another Wednesday Morning.
I was able to spend the night beside my husband. I'm extremely thankful for that. The word says that when two lay together they will keep each other warm. It's good to know that such a blessing as getting to know another human so intimately is biblical and sanctioned by God! I feel blessed by that and I'm excited as I get into this blog. It's something I've been thinking about in light of the recent presidential election. As someone who lives in a household full of Republicans, and is surrounded by Republicans in general, I knew how much Romney was supported by those with Christian values. To say the least, the selection of Obama for a re-election was less than thrilling, some expressed this in a more optimistic approach while others claimed "fire and brimstone" would be coming down on our country. This isn't a conversation about any other person's reaction, except mine. Forgive me for the focus, but I'm not sure a blog written about someone else would be too successful, or authentic. I'm not interested in the opinions of others, but it was helpful to range what I so strongly felt upon hearing the news.
Obama takes the vote.
Hm.
I wasn't surprised.
I had a feeling that Christians weren't coming together enough (myself included!). It seemed like apathy had overtaken the Republic* nation and confusion had caused most voters to give up on voting entirely. Others still point to "obvious" corruption going on in Philadelphia where out of 29 districts not one vote went to Romney. As he* put it, "There would have been at least one looney who put Romeny down on a ballot. It was rigged." I can't say I disagree.
There was something besides boredom when I heard that Obama had been re-elected. I thought, "Good." Let's see what he can do for this nation. Let's see what the mighty wave of God has in store, that through a man who spouts corruption, see the Petraeus Scandal, God will move in a mighty way in this nation. I know that America needs to make a change. I know that many are against the "Socialist" approach to healthcare, but I'm one who is against selfishness and the independence that is causing so many people to be lost and unsaved. I'm taking my examples from the Bible. Look what the people did when anything needs to be done in their city. They come together. They pull resources. They do jobs they weren't doing before. And at the end, they come together and do their rejoicing.
Ezra 3: 11And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the Lord; because he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever toward Israel. And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the Lord, because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid.
In 2 Chronicles 31:20-21 Hezekiah goes throughout Judah doing "what was good and right and faithful before his Lord God." And because "he sought his God and worked wholeheartedly...he prospered."
Let's do that. Regardless of the outcome of the election, let's all continue working hard to do the work that God has called us to do and let's continue believing that He has a plan for all things. That no president is going to overcome God's great plan for us. That even the most corrupt kings in the Old Testament had a change of heart. Manasseh reportedly ranked near the top in a list of corrupt kings, but in 2 Chronicles 33:12-13, "he sought the favor of the Lord his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his ancestors. And when he prayed to him, the Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea; so he brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the Lord is God." There could be that kind of movement and if not, they were ousted. Nothing is impossible for him who believes, and I can see a great opportunity for God's love and light to shine. For his arm to move in a way that no man can imagine. It's all going to be good and God! Amen. <3
We do need to come together though and work. We can see in Acts, Chapter 11, Verse 29 and 30 that "the disciples, as each one was able, decided to provide help for the brothers and sisters living in Judea. They did this sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul."
Wow. Really? The disciples (1)came together and (2)decided to help their (3)
brothers and sisters.
1. Can we come together? Can we lay aside our differences and just pull together to give what extra we do have? I have an awesome visual of that. It looks something like a Thanksgiving dinner open to the community on Thursday morning. It looks like people paying what they can to get a larger building built that would house not just our congregation, but any visitors that were able and all in one service so as to not burn out our pastor.
2. They decided. They made a conscious decision to help. That's what it needs to be, after all. We all want the Holy Spirit to guide us, to tell us how much to give precisely. At least, I did. I stopped doing a Holy Spirit "check" each time the offering went around because it was always a number higher than the one I was holding onto in my mind. I'm not the best at giving generously. I'm working on it. But we have to decide to give, something, anything. They gave, meaning they gifted. If it comes from us as a gift, as a generous desire to help another, don't you think it will inevitably be just right? Maybe not. Maybe you think what you have to give is not good enough, but don't look at it that way. Think about what God can do when we give. He can make fish and loaves more than enough, He can make our offerings far exceed the desired amount.
Lastly, third, the disciples helped their "brothers and sisters." I know for sure I haven't been seeing all Americans as my brothers and sisters, but what if we did? Would that change the way we donated? It would for me, I know that for sure.
I want to stop holding on with fear, with hesitation, questioning whether or not my money, or time, is going to the right place and is going to be appreciated. I even think it would have been hard for to send my gift with Barnabas and Saul, for fear they would spend it along the way on their journey. I'm that way. But I don't want to be. I want to give and give graciously. I want to be that kind of person that my brothers and sisters know they can count on, for anything. God please make a mighty work in me, change my heart to desire what you do, to make decisions that you would have me to make, that the disciples made seemingly effortlessly. Amen.
In Hezekiah's word, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged...for there is a greater power with us than with him. With him is only the arm of flesh, but with us is the Lord our God to help us fight our battles" (vs 7-8a).
"And the people gained confidence from what Hezekiah the king of Judah said" (vs 8b). May it be so with us. May our great nation be blessed. I can't wait to see what the Lord has in store for us as we join together in community and find strength in numbers. I know I'm stronger after my marriage, and that was just adding one to my little life circle. Imagine what we all can do!
Have a blessed day!
Sincerely,
Me!<---Jenn :)
Jenn
Obama takes the vote.
Hm.
I wasn't surprised.
I had a feeling that Christians weren't coming together enough (myself included!). It seemed like apathy had overtaken the Republic* nation and confusion had caused most voters to give up on voting entirely. Others still point to "obvious" corruption going on in Philadelphia where out of 29 districts not one vote went to Romney. As he* put it, "There would have been at least one looney who put Romeny down on a ballot. It was rigged." I can't say I disagree.
There was something besides boredom when I heard that Obama had been re-elected. I thought, "Good." Let's see what he can do for this nation. Let's see what the mighty wave of God has in store, that through a man who spouts corruption, see the Petraeus Scandal, God will move in a mighty way in this nation. I know that America needs to make a change. I know that many are against the "Socialist" approach to healthcare, but I'm one who is against selfishness and the independence that is causing so many people to be lost and unsaved. I'm taking my examples from the Bible. Look what the people did when anything needs to be done in their city. They come together. They pull resources. They do jobs they weren't doing before. And at the end, they come together and do their rejoicing.
Ezra 3: 11And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the Lord; because he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever toward Israel. And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the Lord, because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid.
In 2 Chronicles 31:20-21 Hezekiah goes throughout Judah doing "what was good and right and faithful before his Lord God." And because "he sought his God and worked wholeheartedly...he prospered."
Let's do that. Regardless of the outcome of the election, let's all continue working hard to do the work that God has called us to do and let's continue believing that He has a plan for all things. That no president is going to overcome God's great plan for us. That even the most corrupt kings in the Old Testament had a change of heart. Manasseh reportedly ranked near the top in a list of corrupt kings, but in 2 Chronicles 33:12-13, "he sought the favor of the Lord his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his ancestors. And when he prayed to him, the Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea; so he brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the Lord is God." There could be that kind of movement and if not, they were ousted. Nothing is impossible for him who believes, and I can see a great opportunity for God's love and light to shine. For his arm to move in a way that no man can imagine. It's all going to be good and God! Amen. <3
We do need to come together though and work. We can see in Acts, Chapter 11, Verse 29 and 30 that "the disciples, as each one was able, decided to provide help for the brothers and sisters living in Judea. They did this sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul."
Wow. Really? The disciples (1)came together and (2)decided to help their (3)
brothers and sisters.
1. Can we come together? Can we lay aside our differences and just pull together to give what extra we do have? I have an awesome visual of that. It looks something like a Thanksgiving dinner open to the community on Thursday morning. It looks like people paying what they can to get a larger building built that would house not just our congregation, but any visitors that were able and all in one service so as to not burn out our pastor.
2. They decided. They made a conscious decision to help. That's what it needs to be, after all. We all want the Holy Spirit to guide us, to tell us how much to give precisely. At least, I did. I stopped doing a Holy Spirit "check" each time the offering went around because it was always a number higher than the one I was holding onto in my mind. I'm not the best at giving generously. I'm working on it. But we have to decide to give, something, anything. They gave, meaning they gifted. If it comes from us as a gift, as a generous desire to help another, don't you think it will inevitably be just right? Maybe not. Maybe you think what you have to give is not good enough, but don't look at it that way. Think about what God can do when we give. He can make fish and loaves more than enough, He can make our offerings far exceed the desired amount.
Lastly, third, the disciples helped their "brothers and sisters." I know for sure I haven't been seeing all Americans as my brothers and sisters, but what if we did? Would that change the way we donated? It would for me, I know that for sure.
I want to stop holding on with fear, with hesitation, questioning whether or not my money, or time, is going to the right place and is going to be appreciated. I even think it would have been hard for to send my gift with Barnabas and Saul, for fear they would spend it along the way on their journey. I'm that way. But I don't want to be. I want to give and give graciously. I want to be that kind of person that my brothers and sisters know they can count on, for anything. God please make a mighty work in me, change my heart to desire what you do, to make decisions that you would have me to make, that the disciples made seemingly effortlessly. Amen.
In Hezekiah's word, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged...for there is a greater power with us than with him. With him is only the arm of flesh, but with us is the Lord our God to help us fight our battles" (vs 7-8a).
"And the people gained confidence from what Hezekiah the king of Judah said" (vs 8b). May it be so with us. May our great nation be blessed. I can't wait to see what the Lord has in store for us as we join together in community and find strength in numbers. I know I'm stronger after my marriage, and that was just adding one to my little life circle. Imagine what we all can do!
Have a blessed day!
Sincerely,
Me!<---Jenn :)
Jenn
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Christ's Love is a Symphony
Can you believe He died for you and me?
Not backing down, if it means bringing you into eternity.
Saving your soul from an enemy;
whose ways are real, he's constantly attacking me.
But when I've had enough,
when my vision gets cloudy and the rain starts becoming reality,
I realize I need to run to the King
because He saves me consistently.
There's an image He wants us to have,
one of beauty and grace,
in His arms; my resting place.
The world only offers confusion,
a place where you are comfortable losing,
a daily battle or struggle,
and never gaining control,
but when you give your life to the one and only, Christ.
He makes all of it change, He does away with the strife.
We can live for eternity, bow to the savior, get to know Him by name,
put a fire inside you, an instant flame,
that the world will be drawn to,
so instead of me saving you, it will be the people who you
bring to the Cross, giving hope to the lost.
Turn them away from an enemy,
who threatens their perspectives of life and of love and of beauty.
He came down to save me, He came down in His glory,
He came down so that we could live out our lives
to His beautiful symphony.
Not backing down, if it means bringing you into eternity.
Saving your soul from an enemy;
whose ways are real, he's constantly attacking me.
But when I've had enough,
when my vision gets cloudy and the rain starts becoming reality,
I realize I need to run to the King
because He saves me consistently.
There's an image He wants us to have,
one of beauty and grace,
in His arms; my resting place.
The world only offers confusion,
a place where you are comfortable losing,
a daily battle or struggle,
and never gaining control,
but when you give your life to the one and only, Christ.
He makes all of it change, He does away with the strife.
We can live for eternity, bow to the savior, get to know Him by name,
put a fire inside you, an instant flame,
that the world will be drawn to,
so instead of me saving you, it will be the people who you
bring to the Cross, giving hope to the lost.
Turn them away from an enemy,
who threatens their perspectives of life and of love and of beauty.
He came down to save me, He came down in His glory,
He came down so that we could live out our lives
to His beautiful symphony.
Friday, November 2, 2012
November Second
First of all, Happy Birthday to my step-dad! Not sure of his exact age, but I'm pretty sure that's acceptable as we age, isn't it? I'm not really firm on that fact and my conscience is telling me, "Noo..."
The second point comes from the book I'm reading recently, Cure for the Common Life by Max Lucado.
His words,
"When you and I crest Mount Zion and hear the applause of saints, we'll realize this: hands pushed us up the mountain too. The pierced hands of Jesus Christ, the greatest servant who ever lived" (page 135).
So, on November second I'm thankful for all of the hands that have pushed me up the mountain. Some have been obvious life-players, such as my mom or friends, but others were those who smiled at me and reminded me to do the same or opened up into an extraordinarily intimate conversation as if we had known each other for years while in reality we sat patiently "next" in line.
This life is so beautiful, when we have the time to sit and look around at it. Whether it is a moment of reflection while you are driving home in traffic or the silent moments between wrings as you wash out your latest "special wash" t-shirt.
I'm not saying we should stop and ponder all the miracles of life in every moment we have to ourselves, but enjoy them when they come. They are frequent, sometimes far between. I can't explain the variance. God gives them to us in seasons, so as we approach the holidays, lets all be thankful for what we do have instead of focusing on what we don't. I want to be thankful for the love and joy I get to glean from others. I'm thankful for my health and my time together on this Earth with all of you. I'm thankful for my life and the endless chances I've been given to relive it. I'm thankful for love and it's endless possibilities. I'm thankful for friendships that continue to take me by storm and I'm thankful for the book that someone I love placed in my hands that has brought me to this very moment when I am able to write down the words as they come into my mind. I'm thankful for all of that and now I'm wondering what I'll be able to come up with tomorrow since I was planning to list my list only day by day :)
Good night everybody. I hope you had a blessed day and that God continues blessing you and revealing how extremely special and valued you are in His eyes and how deeply He cares for each and every one of us.
Love,
Jennifer Lynn Cotham.
The second point comes from the book I'm reading recently, Cure for the Common Life by Max Lucado.
His words,
"When you and I crest Mount Zion and hear the applause of saints, we'll realize this: hands pushed us up the mountain too. The pierced hands of Jesus Christ, the greatest servant who ever lived" (page 135).
So, on November second I'm thankful for all of the hands that have pushed me up the mountain. Some have been obvious life-players, such as my mom or friends, but others were those who smiled at me and reminded me to do the same or opened up into an extraordinarily intimate conversation as if we had known each other for years while in reality we sat patiently "next" in line.
This life is so beautiful, when we have the time to sit and look around at it. Whether it is a moment of reflection while you are driving home in traffic or the silent moments between wrings as you wash out your latest "special wash" t-shirt.
I'm not saying we should stop and ponder all the miracles of life in every moment we have to ourselves, but enjoy them when they come. They are frequent, sometimes far between. I can't explain the variance. God gives them to us in seasons, so as we approach the holidays, lets all be thankful for what we do have instead of focusing on what we don't. I want to be thankful for the love and joy I get to glean from others. I'm thankful for my health and my time together on this Earth with all of you. I'm thankful for my life and the endless chances I've been given to relive it. I'm thankful for love and it's endless possibilities. I'm thankful for friendships that continue to take me by storm and I'm thankful for the book that someone I love placed in my hands that has brought me to this very moment when I am able to write down the words as they come into my mind. I'm thankful for all of that and now I'm wondering what I'll be able to come up with tomorrow since I was planning to list my list only day by day :)
Good night everybody. I hope you had a blessed day and that God continues blessing you and revealing how extremely special and valued you are in His eyes and how deeply He cares for each and every one of us.
Love,
Jennifer Lynn Cotham.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Truth
8But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judæa, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
Acts 1:8.
Wow. This is Jesus speaking to His disciples. I love how it came true and imagine, the prophets must have thought Jesus was a dreamer. An idealist, if you will. How could men get out to the "uttermost part of the earth" with language barriers and traveling difficulties? Yet again, maybe they didn't question it for one moment. Either way, imagine how much truer that statement came with the invention of technology and, even earlier, the printing press. I've said this before, even if the Bible is a self-fulfilling prophesy, it's still true. References like that one make me so thrilled because sometimes I wonder who would look at my life and be able to see the tangible effects and truth that God has made a great change in me, therefore He must live? Maybe both examples are needed for someone out there, maybe that someone is myself. I thank God He knows me better than I know myself; that He floods in like a tidal wave and washes out any doubt and replaces it completely with joy and hope. To believe in God is manifold. To go out, to witness, but also to simply live a life that reflects His glory. That comes from being loved. Being loved by God means that without question you can love others. It's amazing and right now, impossible for me to describe more fully, but I promise, it's worth every moment of dedication.
Acts 1:8.
Wow. This is Jesus speaking to His disciples. I love how it came true and imagine, the prophets must have thought Jesus was a dreamer. An idealist, if you will. How could men get out to the "uttermost part of the earth" with language barriers and traveling difficulties? Yet again, maybe they didn't question it for one moment. Either way, imagine how much truer that statement came with the invention of technology and, even earlier, the printing press. I've said this before, even if the Bible is a self-fulfilling prophesy, it's still true. References like that one make me so thrilled because sometimes I wonder who would look at my life and be able to see the tangible effects and truth that God has made a great change in me, therefore He must live? Maybe both examples are needed for someone out there, maybe that someone is myself. I thank God He knows me better than I know myself; that He floods in like a tidal wave and washes out any doubt and replaces it completely with joy and hope. To believe in God is manifold. To go out, to witness, but also to simply live a life that reflects His glory. That comes from being loved. Being loved by God means that without question you can love others. It's amazing and right now, impossible for me to describe more fully, but I promise, it's worth every moment of dedication.
|
Friday, October 19, 2012
I love this!
Solomon, the son of David.
In 2 Chronicles, Verse 1.
"And Solomon determined to build an house for the name of the Lord, and an house for his kingdom."
The interesting part of this is that he was already committed to building the house of God. God told David that his son was going to build the house of God, not David because he had shed too much blood. In 1 Chronicles, we read over and over again that Solomon is to complete the house of the Lord in David's stead. We hear all of that from first God, but ultimately from David. Can you imagine the pressure? It is like being told you are taking over your father's business. And who knows Solomon's heart while all of this is going on? We don't, that's for sure, but can you imagine? "No, Dad, I want to be an artist, not an architect." Or, "I'm inheriting and entire kingdom, you expect me to do what now?" I can picture this because I know what my heart was feeling. That is, of course, not the reaction of the honorable Solomon. He deals with his calling in a way I would love, and hope, to glean from.
"And Solomon determined to build an house for the name of the Lord, and an house for his kingdom."
It is not until this opening of 2 Chronicles that we hear Solomon's heart on the subject. He is telling God, "Challenge accepted." We might have prophesy after prophesy laid on our lives, but it will mean nothing until we purpose to complete it. It is not until he claims his destiny that he, Solomon, begins to ask God for the materials and insight he will need to build a great enough house for the Lord. Now, how can we accept a task that seems greater than our strength and ability? Don't believe that you can do it alone, for starters. Not for a moment did Solomon begin collecting rocks and pebbles on his own and straining his back muscles, telling able-bodied men along the way, "No, no, I've got this. God said for me to build the house." Stubborn and prideful as I might be, Solomon was surely not. It is up to us, however, to show God our hearts, to be obedient to our calling, and to ask God for help as Solomon does in verse 10 of 2 Chronicles. "Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy people, that is so great?" He starts there. He asks to be a great leader, knowing full well that the tak on hand will be challenging, he asks for help. Stop myself there! I am a twenty-four year old woman with no big plans on my life except for the promise that one day I will become a preacher, and for now I am committing myself to a man and we are getting married in a little over a week. Do I dare ask for help? Is it an easy thing to do? Absolutely not! It scares the daylight out of me! Ask for help, for what? I hardly know where to begin. Instead of being bogged down by the idea that I need to say the right things, I want to express my heart to the Lord and surely He will know what needs to happen next. As we will find, if we continue looking to Solomon's life for advice. Do you ever wonder, "Who am I to the Lord and does He really love me?" The answer is "Yes!" He does, but it is up to us to show God our hearts, to be obedient to our calling, to ask God for help as Solomon does in verse 10 of 2 Chronicles. When we do this, when we take the time to show God our imperfections, the weaknesses we are trying to hide, He will rush in like a tidal wave to comfort all of our pain. It is in 2 Chronicles 1:11 that we see how much God loves and values Solomon for his individual sake, rather than as a pawn in the scheme of completing the project begun by his father.
"But who is able to build him an house, seeing the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain him? who am I then, that I should build him an house, save only to burn sacrifice before him" (2 Chronicles 2:6)?
In 2 Chronicles, Verse 1.
"And Solomon determined to build an house for the name of the Lord, and an house for his kingdom."
The interesting part of this is that he was already committed to building the house of God. God told David that his son was going to build the house of God, not David because he had shed too much blood. In 1 Chronicles, we read over and over again that Solomon is to complete the house of the Lord in David's stead. We hear all of that from first God, but ultimately from David. Can you imagine the pressure? It is like being told you are taking over your father's business. And who knows Solomon's heart while all of this is going on? We don't, that's for sure, but can you imagine? "No, Dad, I want to be an artist, not an architect." Or, "I'm inheriting and entire kingdom, you expect me to do what now?" I can picture this because I know what my heart was feeling. That is, of course, not the reaction of the honorable Solomon. He deals with his calling in a way I would love, and hope, to glean from.
"And Solomon determined to build an house for the name of the Lord, and an house for his kingdom."
It is not until this opening of 2 Chronicles that we hear Solomon's heart on the subject. He is telling God, "Challenge accepted." We might have prophesy after prophesy laid on our lives, but it will mean nothing until we purpose to complete it. It is not until he claims his destiny that he, Solomon, begins to ask God for the materials and insight he will need to build a great enough house for the Lord. Now, how can we accept a task that seems greater than our strength and ability? Don't believe that you can do it alone, for starters. Not for a moment did Solomon begin collecting rocks and pebbles on his own and straining his back muscles, telling able-bodied men along the way, "No, no, I've got this. God said for me to build the house." Stubborn and prideful as I might be, Solomon was surely not. It is up to us, however, to show God our hearts, to be obedient to our calling, and to ask God for help as Solomon does in verse 10 of 2 Chronicles. "Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy people, that is so great?" He starts there. He asks to be a great leader, knowing full well that the tak on hand will be challenging, he asks for help. Stop myself there! I am a twenty-four year old woman with no big plans on my life except for the promise that one day I will become a preacher, and for now I am committing myself to a man and we are getting married in a little over a week. Do I dare ask for help? Is it an easy thing to do? Absolutely not! It scares the daylight out of me! Ask for help, for what? I hardly know where to begin. Instead of being bogged down by the idea that I need to say the right things, I want to express my heart to the Lord and surely He will know what needs to happen next. As we will find, if we continue looking to Solomon's life for advice. Do you ever wonder, "Who am I to the Lord and does He really love me?" The answer is "Yes!" He does, but it is up to us to show God our hearts, to be obedient to our calling, to ask God for help as Solomon does in verse 10 of 2 Chronicles. When we do this, when we take the time to show God our imperfections, the weaknesses we are trying to hide, He will rush in like a tidal wave to comfort all of our pain. It is in 2 Chronicles 1:11 that we see how much God loves and values Solomon for his individual sake, rather than as a pawn in the scheme of completing the project begun by his father.
"11And God said to Solomon, Because this was in thine heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honour, nor the life of thine enemies, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and knowledge for thyself, that thou mayest judge my people, over whom I have made thee king:
12Wisdom and knowledge is granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour, such as none of the kings have had that have been before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like."
Wow. It makes me feel like the kid who asked for heaps and heaps of presents on Christmas, only to realize that there are children around the world who simply ask for a measly bite to eat and would be completely satisfied. I realize how blessed I am.
"But who is able to build him an house, seeing the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain him? who am I then, that I should build him an house, save only to burn sacrifice before him" (2 Chronicles 2:6)?
See, Solomon recognized his weakness. He asks of the Lord because he is unsure of himself. In the same chapter, Solomon proceeds to ask God to send him what he needs. He asks for a builder of gold. He asks for the timber to come to him. He literally asks for everything he needs in order to build the house of the Lord. How much more would you ask for if you knew your work was going to be pleasing and honorable for the heavenly father?
"18And he set threescore and ten thousand of them to be bearers of burdens, and fourscore thousand to be hewers in the mountain, and three thousand and six hundred overseers to set the people a work."
Now, throughout Chapter 2 many strangers come and offer their help to Solomon. All that he prays for is answered. I love the last verse of this chapter, verse 18. Never fool yourself into thinking that any job oyu have will be accomplished on your own. It took 3,600 overseers. Can you imagine? That is some kind of delegation that I surely need to become more comfortable in.
Lord, please allow me to relinquish the reigns as I prepare for our wedding date. Lord, please allow me to let helpers in and to see a vision clearly from you, so that the task at hand is made that much easier. Lord, please send me those I need to make it a beautiful and fun-filled day. Please send the finances to us to order all of the food we need, and the flowers and the decorations. Please give me a dance floor of wood and lighting across the floor to brighten the yard from overhead. Please send someone with knowledge to run that process. God, thank you for giving me strength and for allowing me to express every single need to you with the faith that you are generous to complete it and faithful to answer our prayers. Amen.
I realize this is not the house of God I'm building. However, it is a representation of how blessed my life has been since I've been able to let my fiance in and express our lives through the love of God. he has blessed us so much already with our family and friends, it is incredible! We needed tables. Got them for free from our church. We needed help preparing the tables. My mom suggested an idea and we ran with it, now each table will be decorated by other individuals and they will prepare the decorations and the place settings. We only ever got the idea to accept so much help from our Pastor who has seen a number of weddings and knew what she was talking about! It's all coming together so nicely and I am extremely grateful and honored. I can't wait to see the final product next Saturday! Or to see my groom waiting at the other end of the aisle! :)
Amen God, and thank you, for all that you do and for all that you are.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)